KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Bar has elected Anand Raj as its new president for the 2026/2027 term at its 80th annual general meeting (AGM) here on Saturday (March 14).
He previously served as vice-president during the 2024/2025 term. His former role is now held by Murshidah Mustafa, who earlier served as secretary.
The new secretary is R. Jayabalan, while Peter-Douglas Ling was appointed treasurer.
Speaking at a press conference immediately after the AGM, Anand said the appointments reflect continuity in leadership, with three of the office-bearers promoted from positions they held in the previous term.
He added that with the new team in place, the Bar is determined to strengthen its role as an independent voice in the justice system.
“This demonstrates continuity in leadership, and we remain committed to upholding the values of the Bar and speaking without fear or favour,” he said.
The AGM also passed nine of 11 motions, including one on prosecutorial independence that calls for the separation of the offices of the Attorney General (AG) and the Public Prosecutor (PP).
Anand said the motion was unanimously approved, reiterating the Bar’s long-standing position that the offices of the AG and PP must remain separate and independent.
“This is essential to maintain public confidence in the justice system. We have seen this separation adopted in a number of jurisdictions, and it has consistently worked better that way.”
“While we support the principle behind the bill, its operational provisions and amendments do not meaningfully promote accountability and transparency, which are the main reasons for the separation.
“Regrettably, the proposals in the bill allow executive interference in the role of the AG and in the selection of the PP, which undermines accountability and transparency,” he said.
He added that the Bar intends to take all necessary steps, including calling for amendments to the bill, to uphold the rule of law.
“Our proposals include several technical amendments, but in short, we do not believe the bill goes far enough to ensure accountability and transparency.
“Executive interference should not be permitted in these positions,” he said.
The AGM was attended by 433 members. It did not meet the initial quorum of 500 members at 11.15am and was reconvened at 12.15pm.
