Govt committed to ensure continued judicial independence

KUALA LUMPUR: The unity government will continue to ensure the independence of the judiciary and prevent any form of interference from the executive, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

The Deputy Prime Minister said it was important to protect the integrity of the courts, saying it would preserve Malaysia's good image at the international stage.

"The judiciary can be assured of continuous support from the government for its independence and all cases in courts will be heard impartially without any form of interference from the executive.

"The independence and integrity of the Courts must be protected by all stakeholders at all costs and at all times in order for our country to boost the confidence of investors globally," he said at the Asian International Arbitration Centre building here on Tuesday (Jan 30) during the launch of the book " Civil and Criminal Appeals of Malaysia" written by Tan Kee Heng, advocate of the High Court in Sabah and Sarawak.

The book launch was officiated by Chief Justice of Malaysia Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat.

According to Fadillah, Tan is the first East Malaysian to launch a law book in the Peninsular, adding that the senior lawyer is a proud asset of the Borneo States.

"Although I left the legal profession many years ago to embark on my political journey, as a law graduate from Universiti Malaya like Tengku Maimun and fellow classmate Federal Court Judge Datuk Abu Bakar Jais and many others present here, I religiously appreciate the paramount importance in the administration of justice in our country and the rule of law for a fair and orderly society which will ensure that the laws are applied justly and not arbitrary through an adequate system of appeals in our courts.

"I believe the legal fraternity and the judiciary will appreciate his tireless efforts and dedication in this publication which will enrich our understanding on the appellate practice and inspire a new generation of legal minds to approach their profession with diligence and integrity for the benefits of the society as a whole," he added.

Some of the key features of the book include comprehensive explanation on appellate jurisdiction; practice and procedure; analyses of relevant statutory provisions essential for both civil and criminal appeals; and examples of relevant past and recent landmark cases.