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The Bar Council welcomes the news of the appointment of Justice Dato Abdul Malek Ahmad as the President of the Court of Appeal.

Justice Malek Ahmad has, in his many years on the Bench, demonstrated the right judicial qualities and temperament. He has exhibited judicial independence and integrity, and enjoys widespread respect from the Bar and those who are familiar with the functioning of the judiciary in Malaysia. His proven ability, reputation, standing, seniority and experience (all of which are criteria which the Bar has consistently advocated to be relevant to judicial appointments and promotions) make him well suited for this important position. It remains for him, in the years to come, to draw on these qualities in introducing the necessary changes and improvements to the system in a way that will restore public confidence in the judiciary.

This appointment augurs well for the future of the judicial system in Malaysia. It is important that all future judicial appointments and promotions are carried out based on merit and objective criteria, in consultation with important stakeholders in the justice system such as the Bar, the Attorney General's chambers and the Ministry in charge of law.

The Bar Council had previously presented a memorandum detailing suggestions for the setting up of a Commission responsible for judicial appointments and promotions, which will bring Malaysia in line with international standards of establishing an independent and transparent mechanism to deal with these vital issues. It is hoped that the authorities will now take the next step to carefully but speedily study these proposals and implement an improved system that will make Malaysia proud of its judiciary.

Dated 28^th May 2004

Yeo Yang Poh
Vice-chairman
Bar Council