Malaysia’s top judge says “cyber courts” on social media threaten judicial integrity, urging the public to let legal processes run their course.
SHAH ALAM: The Chief Justice has warned that social media is increasingly challenging judicial institutions as the public rushes to judge cases online.
Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh said the rise of “cyber courts” sees netizens making assumptions and effectively sentencing accused individuals before a trial begins.
He described this behaviour as dangerous, stating it threatens the integrity of the entire justice system.
“We must allow the judicial process to take its course,” he said during a lecture at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).
“Let the prosecution present its case, the defence challenge it, and the judge decide based on the law and facts.”
Wan Ahmad Farid cautioned that delivering verdicts ahead of the courts may expose individuals to contempt of court proceedings.
He advised that anyone dissatisfied with a court ruling should exercise their legal right to appeal.
The Chief Justice urged the public to refrain from making comments that insult judges or parties involved in a case.
“If you wish to understand or criticise responsibly, study the law and understand the process,” he said.
“Do not rush to pass judgment in cyberspace.”
His lecture, titled “Judges as Nation Builders”, was attended by 444 law students.
