Bar hails new Chief Justice with track record of upholding judicial integrity
Malaysian Bar president Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab said Wan Ahmad Farid's past conduct — particularly his 2022 decision to recuse himself from a sensitive case and his strong remarks on judicial independence — reflected a deep commitment to upholding the rule of law and preserving public confidence in the judiciary.
"The Malaysian Bar recalls that, in 2022, Wan Ahmad Farid recused himself from hearing a high-profile matter concerning the admission of Queen's Counsel Jonathan Laidlaw in a case involving former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
"In doing so, he made several significant statements on the importance of public confidence in the judiciary, stating that the perception of judicial independence must not be placed in doubt, and that it is not a matter of trial and error.
"He also reminded that an independent judiciary is a precious gift to any society — and once it is lost, anarchy reigns.
"These statements demonstrate a profound understanding of the judiciary's sacred role in upholding the rule of law. We hope that under the stewardship of these new judicial office bearers, the judiciary will continue to uphold the highest standards of independence, integrity and service to the nation," he said in a statement today.
Last night, the Chief Registrar's Office announced that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, had consented to Wan Ahmad Farid's appointment in accordance with Article 122B(1) of the Federal Constitution.
Wan Ahmad Farid succeeds Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, who retired on July 2.
Datuk Abu Bakar Jais has been appointed as the President of the Court of Appeal, while Datuk Azizah Nawawi has been named the Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak.
Commenting further, Ezri said that while these appointments were much welcomed after months of uncertainty and anticipation, the Bar remained hopeful that outstanding vacancies across the Federal Court, the Court of Appeal and the High Court would be filled promptly and transparently.
"We are relieved by the announcement of Wan Ahmad Farid as the new Chief Justice. We extend our congratulations and wish him every success in leading the judiciary with distinction, courage and unwavering commitment to justice.
"We also congratulate Abu Bakar on being appointed President of the Court of Appeal, and Azizah as Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak.
"We remain hopeful that the remaining vacancies in the Federal Court, Court of Appeal and High Court will be filled without delay, and in a manner that reinforces public confidence in the judiciary and strengthens the administration of justice."
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