The Malaysian Bar has submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) calling for the protection of judicial independence, said its president Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab.
On Monday afternoon (July 14), lawyers—including leading members of the Malaysian Bar—participated in the “Walk to Safeguard Judicial Independence” from the Palace of Justice to the PMO.
Ezri said the event was attended by members of the Bar, legal chambers, and concerned members of the public.
The memorandum was received by Datuk Zamri Misman, director-general of the Legal Affairs Division.
“Datuk Zamri was ready and waiting in the office earlier and has acknowledged receipt of the memorandum,” Ezri told a press conference on the same day.
He said the walk aimed to uphold judicial independence, describing it as essential for a healthy democratic system. Ezri also highlighted growing concerns, particularly vacancies in the judiciary, which he said must be addressed urgently.
“Among the matters raised is the need to fill the existing vacancies in the judiciary. We were informed that some cases have been scheduled as far ahead as 2030, which will disrupt court operations and negatively impact clients,” he said.
Ezri confirmed the memorandum would also be delivered directly to the Prime Minister.
Meanwhile, PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar has called for a probe into allegations of judicial interference and the leak of what appears to be confidential minutes from a Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) meeting.
“It is important that these allegations be investigated to restore trust in our judiciary,” said Nurul Izzah, who is also the Prime Minister’s daughter. She made the statement during the Bar’s walk outside the Palace of Justice.
She proposed that investigations be conducted under Article 125 of the Federal Constitution through an independent tribunal comprising at least five senior judges.
Such measures, she said, are vital to preserving public faith in institutional systems and ensuring that the judiciary, executive, and legislature continue to serve as checks and balances on one another.
Nurul Izzah added that she joined the walk to demonstrate support for the judiciary.
“Today, we exercise the right to peaceful assembly, guaranteed by the constitution and upheld by the Prime Minister. In the spirit of reform and justice, which are core to Keadilan, we must improve transparency in the current structure.
“An independent judiciary is a crucial safeguard against executive overreach by the cabinet and the government,” she said.
She also noted that the courts can reprimand Parliament when oppressive or unconstitutional laws are introduced.
“Therefore, those appointed as Chief Justice, President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judge of Malaya, and Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak must not only be capable but also of the highest moral integrity,” she added.
At present, Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim is acting as Chief Justice, while Federal Court judge Datuk Zabariah Mohd Yusof is temporarily carrying out the duties of the Court of Appeal President.
On Sunday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said announced that the appointment of a new Chief Justice will be decided only after the next Conference of Rulers, scheduled for July 15–17.
Meanwhile, police have opened an investigation into the alleged leak and distribution of what is believed to be confidential minutes from the JAC meeting.