Law for Engineers
 
 
Subject Code: BHM3086
Aim of Subject: To expose the students to basic of law in the engineering context. The materials will be of introductory nature to enable engineers to appreciate factors that have to be taken into account in decision-making.
Learning Outcome of Subject: At the completion of the subject, students should be able to :
  • Understand the basic concepts of law in general
  • Appreciate the Malaysian legal system
  • Understand the Malaysian judicial structure
  • Appreciate the separation of power between judiciary, legislature and the executives
  • Understanding intellectual property
  • Understand the legal requirements related to engineering field
  • Apply and implement the legal concepts in decision making
Programme Outcomes:
  • Capability to communicate effectively(10%)
  • Understanding and commitment to professional and ethical responsibilities(50%)
  • Ability to work independently as well as with others in a team(10%)
  • Ability to be a multi-skilled engineer with good technical knowledge, management, leadership and entrepreneurship skills(10%)
  • Awareness of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities as an engineer(10%)
  • Capability and enthusiasm for self-improvement through continuous professional development and life-long learning(10%)
Assessment Scheme:
  • Tutorial / Assignment - Group assignment,focus group discussion at tutorial, to enhance understanding of basic concepts in lecture(20%)
  • Test / Quiz-Written exam(20%)
  • Final Exam-Written exam(60%)
Teaching and Learning Activities: 42 hours (lectures and tutorials)
Credit Hours: 3
Pre-Requisite: None
References:
  • Jawahitha, Khong, Hurriyah, Abdul Jalil. (2002). Basic Law Q&A. Prentice Hall: Malaysia.(Textbook)
  • Syed Ahmad S.A. Alsagoff, “Principles of the law of contract in Malaysia”, Malayan Law Journal, Kuala Lumpur, 1996.

Subject Contents

  • Introduction to Law

    • Law and Government, Malaysian Legal System, Malaysian Judicial Structure, Liability Under the Law.
     
  • Contract Law

    • Formation of contract: offer and acceptance. Terms of contract: avoidance of contract, representation, illegality. Discharge of contract: breach of contract and remedies.
     
  • Tort

    • Liabilities in tort, negligence, trespass, breach of statutory duty.
     
  • Cyber Law

    • Digital copyright issues. Illegal duplication of software. Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. Computer Crimes such as hacking, cracking, unauthorised access, unauthorised modifications. International cyber law. Information sharing.
     
  • Intellectual Property Law

    • Copyright, Protection and Infringement of Copyright, Trade Marks, Protection of Trade Marks and Passing-Off, Patents, Industrial Design, Ownership and Protection of Patents and Future of Intellectual Property Law.
     
  • Employment Legislation

    • Employment Act 1955. The legal duties and responsibilities of employers and employees. Matters pertaining to contracts of service and contracts for service such as appointment, termination etc. Occupation and Safety Health Act 1994.
     
  • Laws Pertaining to Engineers
    • Registration of Engineers Act 1967 and its Regulations, the Board of Engineers, the establishment, the membership, the functions. Matters relating to the engineering profession, code of conduct, registration and deregistration, professional engineering services etc.
    • Energy Commission Act 2001. Establishment and functions of the Commission in relation to energy supply matters and the pertinent matters relating thereto
    • Service Tax: Taxation in relation to professional services rendered by engineers.