New Chief Justice Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh pledges to guard judicial independence and outlines plans to clear case backlogs and improve access
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh has been appointed as Malaysia’s 17th Chief Justice of the Federal Court.
His appointment on July 18 concluded prolonged speculation, succeeding Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat who retired on July 2.
The 63-year-old Kuala Terengganu native was elevated from the Court of Appeal, a position he had held since November last year.
Wan Ahmad Farid previously served as political secretary to former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi from 2003 to 2008.
He also held the post of Deputy Home Minister from 2008 to 2009.
The appointment followed Article 122B(1) of the Federal Constitution with the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
A solemn investiture ceremony was held at the Palace of Justice on August 6 where he took his oath of office.
He vowed to be an unwavering guardian of judicial independence and committed to strengthening the institution.
“Let the message of judicial independence resonate loudly and clearly,” he declared.
He said it must echo beyond courtrooms to reach every layer of society and every corner of power.
Reflecting on his first 100 days, he announced steps to tackle case backlogs and improve access to justice.
These include appointing additional judicial commissioners and expanding mediation services.
During a media interview, he outlined plans to establish a new Commercial Court division in Kuala Lumpur.
This aims to strengthen investor confidence and facilitate swifter resolution of commercial disputes.
Following the formal session, he invited journalists to tour his private chambers and office.
This provided a rare glimpse into the daily workings of the nation’s top judicial office.
He lightened the mood by sharing a humorous moment with members of the press.
“Nobody can instruct me to do anything… not even the prime minister. Except the media,” he said.
He was relaxed and approachable, joking with the media during the interaction.
This displayed a more personable side compared to his firm demeanour when presiding over the Federal Court.
Striking a more serious note, he asserted judges should be evaluated strictly on judicial conduct.
He said evaluation should be based on the calibre of rulings, demeanour in court, and equitable treatment of all parties.
He emphasised judicial rulings must be based solely on facts and the law, free from external influence.
Judges must also appropriately consider all mitigating aspects when passing sentence, he added.
Advancing this vision, he has reactivated the Court of Appeal Circuit sessions in Penang.
This provides easier access for the northern states and is expected to improve efficiency.
It reduces delays as lawyers and parties no longer need to travel to Putrajaya for hearings. – Bernama
