Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: Reuters

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the long-awaited announcement on the appointment of Malaysia’s top judiciary leaders will be made tomorrow by the Conference of Rulers.

He said this update should help clear any negative thoughts or wrong impressions that the public might have about delays or unfairness in the process.

“There are concerns, and I understand that. People are worried because the appointments are taking time, and some think the choices might not be fair,” said the Prime Minister during his speech at the International Conference on Governance and Integrity 2025 held in Kuala Lumpur today.

“But I can promise that is not true. My legal friends will agree that we must follow the law and facts, not just what people think or say. Let the politicians deal with perception. As leaders, we must continue our work based on truth and legal rules,” he added.

Long Discussion with the Rulers

The Prime Minister also shared that he had a detailed and serious discussion with the Conference of Rulers earlier in the morning to solve this matter as soon as possible.

He reminded everyone that since he became Prime Minister more than two and a half years ago, he has never spoken to any judge about any court case, large or small.

“This issue of judicial independence is very important. I know people are saying that there has been interference, but I want to make it clear—I have not talked to any judge about any case,” he stressed.

“Not once. Not with the Chief Justice, not with any judge. I have followed and respected the principle of judicial independence since the day I took office,” he told the international audience.

Political Leaders Briefed

Earlier this week, Transport Minister Anthony Loke also gave more information about the matter. He said that Prime Minister Anwar had informed all government backbenchers (Members of Parliament who support the government but are not ministers) that a final decision on the judiciary appointments would be made within this week.

The announcement was made during a private meeting in Putrajaya where Anwar met with his MPs to explain the situation.

Two Top Posts Vacant

The positions that are currently vacant are the two highest in the Malaysian judiciary system.

The post of Chief Justice of Malaysia became empty on July 1, after Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat finished her six-year term. She had been the first woman to hold the post in Malaysia’s history.

The second highest post, President of the Court of Appeal, became vacant the next day when Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim retired after serving for more than two years and five months.

Both judges stepped down after reaching the age of 66, which is the retirement age for judges in Malaysia. Neither of them was given a six-month extension, which is allowed under certain conditions.

At the moment, Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim, the Chief Judge of Malaya, is temporarily carrying out the duties of Chief Justice while the country waits for a new appointment.

Concerns from the Public and Legal Groups

Many people have been talking about these delays, especially on social media. Some lawyers and legal groups are also asking why it is taking so long to appoint new leaders in the judiciary.

They say the judiciary is an important pillar of the country, and the top positions should not remain vacant for too long. The judiciary helps ensure that everyone, including the government, follows the law.

Some are also worried that political pressure could affect who gets appointed. But Prime Minister Anwar has made it clear that this is not happening under his leadership.

A Test of Judicial Independence

This situation comes at a time when the independence of Malaysia’s courts has been in the spotlight.

Recently, there have been discussions in the media and among the public about whether judges are free to make decisions without interference from politicians or other powerful people.

Some people think that the government has too much say in who becomes a judge, especially for the top positions.

The Prime Minister responded strongly to this. He said that these ideas are based on false beliefs and that the system works by following proper laws and procedures, not personal interests.

Respect for the Rulers and the Law

In Malaysia, the appointment of judges to the top courts involves a few important steps. The names of potential candidates are usually suggested by the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), a body made up of senior judges and legal experts.

After that, the names go to the Prime Minister, who gives his advice to the Conference of Rulers. The rulers, who represent the nine royal families of Malaysia, then make the final decision.

This system is meant to balance power and ensure that no single person can control who becomes a judge.

Prime Minister Anwar said today that he has followed this system closely and has shown respect for the rulers’ role in the process.

“I had a long talk with the Conference of Rulers this morning. I believe we are close to an outcome, and I hope the announcement tomorrow will clear the air,” he said.

Looking Ahead

Legal observers say the next few days will be very important for Malaysia’s legal system. The appointments of the new Chief Justice and Court of Appeal President will shape the direction of the judiciary for the coming years.

These two leaders will handle major court decisions and make sure justice is served in both criminal and civil cases.

Many Malaysians are now waiting to see who will be chosen. People are hoping that the new judges will be honest, fair, and firm in upholding the law.

For now, the Prime Minister is asking for trust and patience.

“We must move forward based on truth and legal process, not rumors. Let the courts do their work independently, without fear or pressure,” he said.

The Prime Minister has promised that the appointments for Malaysia’s top judicial positions will be announced soon. He has denied any political interference and assured the public that the process follows legal procedures. The decision is expected from the Conference of Rulers tomorrow.

As Malaysians wait, the country’s legal community and the public hope that the choices made will strengthen the nation’s commitment to justice and judicial independence.