Malaysia must uphold judicial independence

THE National Human Rights Society of Malaysia (Hakam, or Persatuan Kebangsaan Hak Asasi Manusia) expresses grave concern over recent developments that further undermine public confidence in the integrity and independence of the Malaysian Judiciary.

Following our earlier statement on the unequal and unexplained failure to extend the tenures of Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, Court of Appeal President Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim, and Federal Court Judge Tan Sri Nallini Pathmanathan, which is a departure from established convention under Article 125(1) of the Federal Constitution, we are now alarmed by media reports suggesting possible interference in judicial appointments and allegations of misconduct involving a Federal Court judge.