(Miri, 17th) Miri Member of Parliament Chiew Choon Man expresses full support for Chief Justice Tengku Maimun’s cautious and objective call to strengthen our judicial system, reaffirming that public confidence in the judiciary is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. She reminds us that judicial authority should be viewed as “a fortress against tyranny, oppression, and absolute power, as absolute power inevitably leads to absolute corruption.” Her remarks are not directed at any individual but are a professional explication of constitutional principles aimed at ensuring every Malaysian citizen’s right to a fair trial in an impartial court.
In his statement today, he pointed out that the independence of the judiciary is not merely a legal concept; it is the last line of defense in upholding the rule of law. Whether ordinary citizens, public officials, or the wealthy, all must equally adhere to the law. When this principle is upheld, justice is not swayed by political winds or undermined by personal interests. This is the spirit of Mrs. Prayut’s speech and is what every government department should advocate.
“The dividends of a judicial system that earns trust extend far beyond the courts. When investors know their contractual rights will be protected, they are more willing to invest. When citizens have confidence in legal remedies, the implementation of government policies becomes smoother and more effective. When everyone understands that lawbreakers will be held accountable without fear, social crime rates and corruption decrease. In short, judicial independence is an economic, political, and social asset that cannot be eroded.”
he also said, therefore, I am encouraged by the Malaysian government's clear commitment under Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Anwar to a comprehensive review of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC). The Prime Minister has pledged to take an inclusive process, consulting with the judiciary, the Malaysian Bar, civil society organizations, and the Conference of Rulers to ensure that any recalibration of the JAC respects our constitutional monarchy and strengthens the separation of powers. This openness aligns with the broader institutional reform agenda of the current government.
“Equally inspiring is the mutual trust established between the Chief Justice and the Prime Minister. Tengku Maimun expressed confidence that under Prime Minister Anwar’s leadership, the current government will be 'unyielding' in defending judicial independence, and the Prime Minister has publicly applauded the Chief Justice’s courage in restoring public confidence in the courts. Their shared determination sends a strong signal that our governmental departments at all levels can work together to maintain national democratic health and the rule of law.”
He said, I urge all parties to refrain from hyping up the Chief Justice’s remarks or engaging in defamation that could undermine public confidence in our institutions. Let us unite and collectively support the shared goal articulated by Tengku Maimun and Dato’ Sri Anwar: to establish a firm, free, and respected judicial system that enables Malaysia to thrive under the inviolable shelter of the rule of law. My office and I stand prepared to support any legislative or consultative work advancing this crucial reform agenda.
In his statement today, he pointed out that the independence of the judiciary is not merely a legal concept; it is the last line of defense in upholding the rule of law. Whether ordinary citizens, public officials, or the wealthy, all must equally adhere to the law. When this principle is upheld, justice is not swayed by political winds or undermined by personal interests. This is the spirit of Mrs. Prayut’s speech and is what every government department should advocate.
“The dividends of a judicial system that earns trust extend far beyond the courts. When investors know their contractual rights will be protected, they are more willing to invest. When citizens have confidence in legal remedies, the implementation of government policies becomes smoother and more effective. When everyone understands that lawbreakers will be held accountable without fear, social crime rates and corruption decrease. In short, judicial independence is an economic, political, and social asset that cannot be eroded.”
he also said, therefore, I am encouraged by the Malaysian government's clear commitment under Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Anwar to a comprehensive review of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC). The Prime Minister has pledged to take an inclusive process, consulting with the judiciary, the Malaysian Bar, civil society organizations, and the Conference of Rulers to ensure that any recalibration of the JAC respects our constitutional monarchy and strengthens the separation of powers. This openness aligns with the broader institutional reform agenda of the current government.
“Equally inspiring is the mutual trust established between the Chief Justice and the Prime Minister. Tengku Maimun expressed confidence that under Prime Minister Anwar’s leadership, the current government will be 'unyielding' in defending judicial independence, and the Prime Minister has publicly applauded the Chief Justice’s courage in restoring public confidence in the courts. Their shared determination sends a strong signal that our governmental departments at all levels can work together to maintain national democratic health and the rule of law.”
He said, I urge all parties to refrain from hyping up the Chief Justice’s remarks or engaging in defamation that could undermine public confidence in our institutions. Let us unite and collectively support the shared goal articulated by Tengku Maimun and Dato’ Sri Anwar: to establish a firm, free, and respected judicial system that enables Malaysia to thrive under the inviolable shelter of the rule of law. My office and I stand prepared to support any legislative or consultative work advancing this crucial reform agenda.