The Malaysian Bar reiterates the importance of addressing judicial remuneration as a matter of principle, institutional integrity and public confidence.
The question of judicial pay is not solely about compensation; it is fundamentally about preserving the independence and dignity of the judiciary.
In March 2023, the Malaysian Bar, at its 77th annual general meeting, adopted a resolution calling for the establishment of an independent judges’ remuneration commission.
This proposal is grounded in the belief that judicial salaries and benefits should be reviewed regularly through a transparent, objective and independent process. A structured mechanism of this nature is critical to ensuring that judges are not exposed to undue influence – perceived or otherwise.
To date, the implementation of the proposed reforms from the Malaysian Bar’s resolution remains pending. While there may be valid administrative considerations, the continued delay gives rise to assumptions that such matters could be approached selectively or with strategic timing.
Even if such assumptions are unfounded, the mere perception that decisions on judicial remuneration are contingent on external factors risks eroding public trust in the impartiality of institutions.
The Malaysian Bar thus urges the government to proceed with the proposed reforms in relation to judicial remuneration without delay and to ensure that any future decisions relating to judicial remuneration are driven solely by the demands of justice, good governance and institutional stability.
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Carrying through reforms would not only uphold the rule of law but also avert public misperception and reaffirm the impartiality and maturity of our democratic system.
Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab is the president of the Malaysian Bar.
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