The trial involving a RM400 million matrimonial dispute between the Sarawak chief minister's son Mahmud Abu Bekir Taib and his former wife Shahnaz A Majid has been postponed, to allow yet more time to discuss an out-of-court settlement.

According to Shahnaz's counsel Rafie Mohd Shafie, the trial, initially due to commence today at the Kuala Lumpur Syariah High Court, is now scheduled for Sept 24.

"The case will go to trial (on the date) if no settlement is reached," he told reporters later.

The chief minister's son, had offered a settlement on March 13, and was allowed an initial two weeks to list out its details, which subsequently was extended.

However on April 24, it was reported that there was no settlement in sight as no offers were made despite the extensions.

Adjournment sought

Counsels for both parties earlier today sought to adjourn the case, slated for 10am today, to 11.30am as they were in discussions for a settlement.

NONE "A moment ago we were still in the midst of discussing the entire case," Mahmud Abu Bekir's counsel Zainul Rijal Abu Bakar ( left ) told the court.

The decision to postpone the trial to a later date was, however, arrived at after about 15 minutes discussion with presiding judge Mohamad Abdullah in chambers, when the parties reconvened at 11.30am.

Shahnaz is seeking RM100 million in damages and another RM300 million claim in joint matrimonial assets following the divorce in which she cited irreconcilable differences and not having sex from Mahmud Abu Bekir since 2001.

Married on Jan 9, 1992, the duo divorced on May 11, last year after 19 years of marriage when Mahmud Abu Bekir pronounced the talak (declaration of divorce). Shahnaz was also given custody of their now 18-year-old son.

Both Shahnaz and Mahmud Abu Bekir were present in court today.