The late fifth Prime Minister of our country, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, will always be remembered as a figure who elevated the judiciary system to a more esteemed position.
The first Chairman of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), Tun Zaki Azmi, stated that the commission was established in 2009 during Abdullah's tenure as Prime Minister, aiming to ensure a more structured and transparent judicial appointment process.
“After the establishment of the Judicial Appointments Commission, all judicial candidates undergo rigorous scrutiny beforehand, fully reflecting 'Pak Lah's commitment to ensuring judicial appointments are performance-based rather than politically influenced.”
Before this, it was commonly believed that judges were appointed by the Prime Minister, and those chosen were often aligned with his stance.
“But after the establishment of the Judicial Appointments Commission, the Prime Minister's decision to appoint judges is based on the recommendations of the commission.”
He said this during an interview with Bernama.
Zaki, who served as the Chief Justice of the Federal Court for three years starting in 2008, expressed sorrow over Abdullah's passing and described him as a gentle and sincere leader.
He noted that Abdullah was a respected politician who made significant contributions to national development, particularly in human resources, earning him the title of 'Father of Human Capital Development.'
“'Pak Lah' is particularly special to me because he appointed me as a judge and later as the Chief Justice. For this, I am truly grateful.”
In 2007, Zaki made history by becoming the first lawyer to be directly appointed as Chief Justice of the Federal Court. In 2009, he was appointed Chairman of the Judicial Appointments Commission.
Former Chief Justice of the Federal Court Tun Arifin also expressed sadness and described the establishment of the Judicial Appointments Commission as a significant milestone in strengthening the independence of our judiciary.
He recognized Abdullah's efforts in elevating the judicial institution to a respected and independent position.
“I had the privilege of serving as the Chief Judge of Malaya during his (Prime Minister's) tenure.”
In his memory, Abdullah was a man of integrity and caution.
“He was a Prime Minister who respected judicial independence. His passing deeply saddens me, and I pray that his soul rests in the embrace of the righteous.”