KUALA LUMPUR: With the Malaysian Bar electing Anand Raj as its new president, the legal body is reviving its decades-long push to separate the roles of Attorney General (AG) and Public Prosecutor (PP).
Anand has been elected Malaysian Bar president for the 2026/2027 term, replacing Datuk Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab, at the Bar’s 80th annual general meeting (AGM) yesterday.
The AGM also passed nine of 11 motions, including one on prosecutorial independence calling for the separation of the offices of the AG and the PP.
Speaking at a press conference after the AGM, Anand said the motion was unanimously approved, reiterating the Bar’s long-standing position that the offices must remain separate and independent to maintain public confidence in the justice system.
He said the Bar was of the view that the Constitution (Amendment) (No 2) Bill 2026, which seeks to separate the roles of the AG and the PP, did not go far enough to ensure accountability and transparency.
“While the Bill is supported, its operational provisions and amendments do not meaningfully promote accountability and transparency.
“The proposals allow executive interference in the role of the AG and the selection of the PP. Executive interference should not be permitted in these positions,” he said.
Anand said the Bar intends to take all necessary steps, including calling for amendments, to uphold the rule of law.
The AGM was attended by 433 members. It did not meet the quorum of 500 members at 11.15am and reconvened at 12.15pm.
Other motions that were passed include clarifying the Bar’s stance on judicial appointments to safeguard judicial independence, and addressing executive interference in the Legal Profession Qualifying Board and legal education.
Anand previously served as vice-president during the 2024/2025 term.
Murshidah Mustafa, who was secretary, has been promoted to vice-president while R. Jayabalan takes over as secretary and Peter‑Douglas Ling has been appointed treasurer.
Anand said the appointments reflect continuity in leadership, with three of the office bearers promoted from positions held in the previous term.
“With the new team in place, the Bar is determined to strengthen its role as an independent voice in the justice system.
“We remain committed to upholding the values of the Bar and speaking without fear or favour,” he said.
