Judiciary will remain independent, says new Chief Justice

PUTRAJAYA: The judiciary will remain independent and competent, said newly-appointed Chief Justice Tan Sri Md Raus Sharif.

"It is my duty as well as the duty of every one of us to ensure that the independence of judiciary is safeguarded," said Md. Raus who was appointed as the 14th Chief Justice on Monday.

He said in his speech that judicial independence is essential if judges are to perform their constitutional role fairly and impartially.

Md Raus added that all judges should work together to defend the judiciary from attempts to undermine its independence.

"It is our responsibility to ensure that judges should decide matters before them impartially, on the basis of facts before them and in accordance with the law," he said.

Md Raus added that all judges should come to their decisions without any restriction, improper influence, inducements, pressure, or direct and indirect threats or interference from any quarter or for any reason.

"As an institution, the judiciary is not and should never be beholden to anyone, but the Federal Constitution," he said.

Md Raus also said that it is of fundamental importance that judges must observe the highest standards of conduct and integrity.

"Public confidence in the judiciary is essential in the administration of justice," he said.