Pay hike for judiciary 'meaningful' as judges don't get annual raises: CJ

 

Chief Justice Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh said the 30 percent salary increase for judges reinforces judicial independence, highlighting that judges do not receive annual increments and are precluded from holding other offices or engaging in business.

Speaking at the Opening of the Legal Year 2026 here today, Wan Ahmad Farid expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the government for the pay adjustment, describing it as both timely and significant.

“This is the first adjustment in a decade. Given that judges do not benefit from annual increments and are precluded from holding other offices or engaging in business, this increment reflects a clear recognition of the demands placed upon judicial office.

“It also demonstrates a meaningful commitment to enhancing the welfare of the judiciary, supporting a resilient, credible and high-performing administration of justice,” he said, adding that the increment, in his view, contributes directly to promoting judicial independence.

The landmark 30 percent salary increase for judges, now gazetted, took effect on Jan 1. This measure, fulfilling a pledge made by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the 2026 budget, applies to all judges from the High Court to the Federal Court.

Wan Ahmad Farid also reminded judges that enhanced remuneration must be matched with heightened responsibility.

“Judicial office carries with it the expectation that judges will read extensively, remain abreast of legal and societal developments, equip themselves with new knowledge, and never cease learning.

“In a rapidly evolving legal landscape, continuous learning is not a choice; it is a duty,” he said.

The chief justice further reiterated that fair compensation serves as an important safeguard for the judiciary.

“A fairly compensated judiciary helps shield judges from undue influence, encourages capable legal minds to step forward in service, and allows those who sit on the bench to discharge their duties without undue financial concern,” he said.

Wan Ahmad Farid added that during his first 100 days in office, he had indicated his intention to explore the possibility of introducing performance-based incentives for superior court judges who demonstrate diligence, discipline, and sustained commitment to the timely discharge of their judicial duties.

“This practice is not new. It is adopted in certain comparable jurisdictions, including Singapore, and it is one that merits careful and principled consideration,” he said.

- Bernama