Bar Welcomes New Cj With Relief Recalls Precious Gift Remarks

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The Malaysian Bar expressed “relief” over the appointment of Court of Appeal judge Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh as the new chief justice, citing his earlier remarks underscoring the vital need for public confidence in the judiciary.
In a statement this afternoon, Bar president Ezri Abdul Wahab wished Wan Farid success in leading the judiciary with “distinction, courage and unwavering commitment to justice”.
Recalling his decision to recuse himself concerning a case involving former premier Najib Abdul Razak, Ezri said the judge had remarked that “the public perception of the independence of the judiciary should not be put in doubt. It is not a matter of trial and error.”
He said Wan Ahmad Farid also reminded all that “an independent judiciary is a precious gift to any society. Once it is lost, anarchy reigns”.
ADS“These statements demonstrate a profound understanding of the judiciary’s sacred role in upholding the rule of law,” he added.
New Chief Justice Wan Ahmad Farid Wan SallehEzri also congratulated Abu Bakar Jais on his appointment as Court of Appeal president and Azizah Nawawi as chief judge of Sabah and Sarawak, expressing hope that the new judicial leadership will uphold the highest standards of independence, integrity, and service to the nation.
Reinforcing public confidence in judiciary
On the same note, the Bar president said while these appointments are much welcomed after months of uncertainty, anticipation, and avoidable speculation, many critical vacancies - current and anticipated - remain unfilled across the Federal Court, the Court of Appeal, and the High Court.
“We remain hopeful that these remaining vacancies will be filled promptly and transparently, in a manner that reinforces public confidence in the judiciary and strengthens the administration of justice,” he added.
On July 14, the Bar held a “Walk to Safeguard Judicial Independence,” drawing hundreds of lawyers who marched from the Palace of Justice to the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya.
The Malaysian Bar rally for judicial independence on July 14The march aimed to highlight deep institutional concerns over judicial independence, prolonged vacancies, the need for leadership continuity, and calls for urgent reform.
It followed the leak of a police report involving questions raised by Malaysiakini to a senior judge - then under consideration for a top judicial post - over alleged interference during a Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) meeting.
The purported JAC meeting minutes were also leaked online. - FMT

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