Uncertainty over Tengku Maimun's tenure as CJ beyond July

 

It remains uncertain whether Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat will continue serving as Chief Justice beyond her 66th birthday in July. - NSTP/MOHD FADLI HAMZAH

KUALA LUMPUR: It remains uncertain whether Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat will continue serving as Chief Justice beyond her 66th birthday in July.

This follows the six-month extensions granted to six Federal Court judges who were set to retire this year.

Tengku Maimun, the first woman to hold the country's top judicial position, was sworn in on May 6, 2019, and will turn 66 on July 2.

Under Article 125(1) of the Federal Constitution, a Federal Court judge may serve until the age of 66, with a possible extension of up to six months if approved by the King.

The question now is whether Tengku Maimun's tenure will be extended or if a new Chief Justice will be appointed.

Among the possible successors are Chief Judge of Malaya Datuk Seri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim, whose tenure has already been extended by six months, and former Attorney-General Tan Sri Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh.

However, sources told Berita Harian that Ahmad Terrirudin is considered "junior" to other Federal Court judges.

Ahmad Terrirudin, 57, served as Attorney-General from Sept 6, 2023, to Nov 11, 2024. Before that, he was Solicitor-General.

"There is a possibility that Hasnah will be appointed until next year before the position is taken over by Ahmad Terrirudin," said a source.

Hasnah, who turns 66 on May 13, will remain in office until Nov 14 following the extension of her tenure. - NST