Attended the Opening of the Legal Year (OLY) 2025 yesterday at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre. The event saw a gathering of judges, lawyers and members of AGC to mark the start of the year for the legal fraternity and for the fraternity to reaffirm their commitment to justice, constitutional supremacy, and the independence of the judiciary.
In her speech, Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun noted that this is her last OLY and reflected on her tenure since 2018. She emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the Federal Constitution as the supreme law of the land, constitutional milestones under her term, and the role of judges. The highlight of her speech was the reminder on the importance of independence of the judiciary and the selection process of judges. The Chief Justice underscored the importance of an independent judicial appointments process, cautioning against any interference that could undermine public confidence in the judiciary and the need for the Executive headed by the Prime Minister to live up to it’s commitment for an independent judiciary and non-interference in judicial appointments.
President of the Malaysian Bar Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab spoke on the role of the Bar, lack of consultation with the Bar when enacting new laws despite the Bar’s unique expertise on the matter, need for transparency in judicial appointment process, independence of judiciary, prison reform and restorative justice.
Attorney General Dato’ Mohd Dusuki bin Mokhtar outlined the AGC’s key achievements in 2024, including the implementation of online systems like e-Daftar and e-Rep to enhance efficiency in criminal case management. He also emphasized the AGC’s commitment to continuous improvement and cooperation with the judiciary and the Bar.
OLY serves to refresh our commitment as members of the administration of justice, and of course a chance to reconnect with old friends, and connecting with new friends.
