by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 20: Reforming the judicial appointments process, particularly the removal of the Prime Minister’s influence in this process, is a necessary step in restoring public confidence in Malaysia’s judiciary, Ba’Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian says.
In a statement, he expressed his support for Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat’s recent call for urgent reforms to Malaysia’s judicial appointments process, specifically in the removal of the Prime Minister’s role in selecting judges.
“In any democratic society, the judiciary serves as the last bastion of justice. It must not only be independent—it must be seen to be independent. The very integrity of our legal system rests on the confidence of the people that judicial decisions are made impartially and without political interference.
“Allowing the head of the Executive to play a role in judicial appointments is, by its very nature, a form of interference. It blurs the line between the Executive and the Judiciary, and undermines the doctrine of separation of powers that is fundamental to good governance and the rule of law,” he said.
He also referred to the Chief Justice’s statement as both “timely” and “principled”, noting that as the outgoing head of the judiciary, she has spoken from a position of experience rather than self-interest.
“Her words come from a place of experience and deep concern for the institution she has faithfully served. Her message deserves to be heard with open hearts and serious intent,” Baru stressed.
He further emphasised that the independence of the judiciary is not a political issue—it is a national one.
“I also wish to remind the Prime Minister—whom I respect for his longstanding advocacy for reform even before taking office—that this is a critical opportunity to walk the talk.
“Reforming the judicial appointments process would be a bold and necessary step in restoring public trust in our institutions and strengthening democracy in Malaysia.” – DayakDaily
