Istana Negara: Judicial appointments must remain prudent and free from political interference

JUDICIAL appointments to Malaysia’s superior courts must be undertaken with prudence, integrity and in strict adherence to the Federal Constitution, Istana Negara said in a statement today, stressing that the process must remain free from political influence.

Citing Article 122B of the Federal Constitution, the palace noted that judicial appointments are made by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the Prime Minister, after consultation with the Conference of Rulers.

“This clearly reflects the principle of checks and balances within the country’s judicial system,” the statement said.

While the Judicial Appointments Commission Act 2009 (Act 695) provides the legal framework for nominating candidates to the judiciary, Istana Negara emphasised that “the authority to advise the Yang di-Pertuan Agong lies with the Prime Minister.”

It added that all appointments under the Constitution must be conducted lawfully to preserve the impartiality and dignity of the monarchy’s constitutional role.

“Appointments under the Federal Constitution must be carried out lawfully to ensure that the exercise of powers by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is not politicised by any party,” the statement concluded. - July 10, 2025