Arifin Zakaria named new chief justice

Chief Judge of Malaya Arifin Zakaria (right) has been appointed the chief justice effective Sept 12, succeeding Zaki Azmi who goes on mandatory retirement at age 66 on the same date, Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak announced in a statement today.

He also said in the statement, issued by the Prime Minister's Office, that Federal Court judge Zulkefli Ahmad Makinudin had been appointed chief judge of Malaya to take over from Arifin.

Najib also said that Federal Court judge Md Raus Sharif had been appointed Court of Appeal president to succeed Alauddin Mohd Sheriff who is going on early retirement.

All the appointments are effective Sept 12.

The prime minister said Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin had consented to all the appointments as per Clause (1) Article 122B of the federal constitution on the advice of the prime minister and after consultation with the conference of rulers.

Najib recorded the government's highest appreciation and thanks to Zaki for his services during his term as the chief justice, and paid tribute to his efforts in transforming the judiciary and reducing the backlog of cases at all levels to effect justice speedily.

He said the government was thankful to Alauddin, who is retiring at the age of 65, for his services to the judiciary, especially in heading the Court of Appeal.

Najib said the Federal Court registry was working with the Istana Negara on a date for the presentation of the instruments of appointment to the judges and their swearing-in.

- Bernama