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THE appointment of Malaysia’s next Chief Justice and President of the Court of Appeal will be carried out in full compliance with Article 122B of the Federal Constitution, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said confirmed on Wednesday.
She said the process will be guided by constitutional provisions requiring the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to act on the advice of the Prime Minister, following consultation with the Conference of Rulers.
“This reflects the principles of constitutional monarchy that underpin our system of governance. The Federal Constitution is the supreme law of the land and must be adhered to by all parties,” Azalina said in a statement.
The 269th Meeting of the Conference of Rulers is scheduled to be held from 15 to 17 July 2025, during which the matter will be discussed.
Azalina added that the Cabinet has taken note of the public’s concerns regarding the vacancies and reaffirmed that the appointments will proceed in accordance with all relevant laws and procedures.
The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) recently stressed that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is not merely a conduit for recommendations from other parties but carries a clear constitutional responsibility to advise the King, in order to uphold the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
Responding to claims of delays in the appointment process, the AGC stated these should be viewed within the constitutional framework.
Azalina also confirmed that, in the interim, Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim is exercising the powers and duties of the Chief Justice in accordance with Article 131A of the Federal Constitution and relevant provisions of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964.
“This ensures the continuity of judicial administration until the vacancy is formally filled,” she said.
Reiterating the Madani government’s commitment to public trust and the rule of law, Azalina said long-term improvements are being considered to further enhance transparency and judicial independence.
“We hope all parties will allow the constitutional process to proceed smoothly and appropriately, in the interest of the nation, the rule of law, and the stability of our institutions,” she added. - July 10, 2025