Akuan berkanun (statutory declaration)

An akuan berkanun, known in English as a statutory declaration, is a written statement of facts sworn before a commissioner for oaths, carrying the same seriousness as evidence given under oath in court.

In a road accident context, it is commonly used to explain a late police report or to confirm facts where the usual document is missing, supporting rather than replacing the record used in the statutory declaration process for a late report. A late report alone does not automatically defeat a claim.

Because it is a sworn document, it should be accurate and specific, not a general excuse for the delay.

It is typically prepared with help from a lawyer or a commissioner for oaths, who can confirm that it has been properly sworn.