KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 3, 2025 – Bangi MP and DAP National Vice-Chairman Syahredzan Johan has refuted a media statement by Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chief Whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan regarding the appointment of Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Hasnah Datuk Mohammed as acting Chief Justice of Malaysia and President of the Court of Appeal.
In a statement yesterday, Syahredzan clarified that Takiyuddin’s remarks contained inaccuracies, urging the PN leader to refer to Section 9 of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964. The provision stipulates that in the absence of a Chief Justice and President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judge of Malaya assumes the duties of both roles.
“There is nothing unusual or irregular about this, as it is clearly provided for by law. A senior lawyer like Datuk Seri Takiyuddin should be well-versed in this matter,” Syahredzan said.
He also dismissed Takiyuddin’s claim of a “delay” in appointing a new Chief Justice, noting that in 2019, following Tun Richard Malanjum’s retirement on April 12, Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat was appointed on May 2—a gap of several weeks. Syahredzan argued it was unfair to allege delays when the current vacancy has only been in place for a few days.
Syahredzan called on all parties to respect the role of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution, in filling the judiciary’s top post. He expressed hope that the new Chief Justice would uphold the legacy of Tun Tengku Maimun in safeguarding the judiciary’s independence and integrity.