KUALA LUMPUR – Newly-minted Chief Justice Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh has reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the independence of the judiciary as he took office today.
During a formal ceremony at the Palace of Justice, Wan Ahmad Farid, 62, emphasised that while his career had spanned various roles within government, his dedication to judicial impartiality and independence remained unwavering.
“I’ve had a long and varied career. I have served in all three branches of the government. I cannot erase my history, political or otherwise,” he said, as quoted by Malay Mail Online.
“But as I assume this most solemn ‘amanah’ (trust), for as long as I occupy this chair, I give you my unconditional pledge, in the name of my Creator, that I will vigorously protect and relentlessly safeguard the independence of this branch of government with every fibre of my being,” he stated.
Although he did not explicitly list his prior political roles, Wan Ahmad Farid’s background includes serving as a former Umno member, deputy minister, and Dewan Negara lawmaker. His remarks come amidst ongoing scrutiny of his political history.
Looking ahead, he called for a collaborative effort to strengthen the judiciary, emphasising the need for an independent, resilient, and efficient legal system. “And now let us look forward to the future of our judiciary — one that is independent, resilient, efficient, learned and future-proof,” he added.
He also echoed the sentiment of French philosopher Montesquieu: “There is no liberty if the judiciary power be not separated from the legislative and executive.” Wan Ahmad Farid reiterated his resolve to protect judicial independence, vowing to work towards the betterment of the judiciary and its autonomy.
In 2022, Wan Ahmad Farid had voluntarily recused himself from presiding over a case involving former Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Razak, citing his political background and the importance of public trust in the judiciary’s independence.
His speech also highlighted the adoption of technology in courtrooms, which he believes will continue to improve efficiency and access to justice. “The judiciary will closely follow technological developments, particularly the evolution of artificial intelligence,” he said.
“We will ensure that our judges are sufficiently equipped not only to use technology in courts but also to manage issues relating to technology.”
Wan Ahmad’s appointment as Chief Justice comes after the mandatory retirement of his predecessor, Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, on July 2.
On July 28, Wan Ahmad took the oath of office at Istana Negara and was also appointed as a Federal Court judge.
With an extensive career that spans legal practice and government service, Wan Ahmad began his legal career as an advocate and solicitor in Messrs Adnan & Wee before becoming political secretary to the late Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi from 2003 to 2008.
He later served as Deputy Home Minister for a brief period in 2008–2009. Returning to law practice, he became a Judicial Commissioner in 2011 before being elevated to High Court Judge in 2019. — August 6, 2025