MALAYSIA’S Chief Justice, Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, has highlighted the dual importance of adequate judicial compensation and professional responsibility, linking a recent 30 per cent salary increase for judges to the independence of the judiciary and the capacity to discharge duties without financial concern.
Delivering his speech at the Opening of the Legal Year 2026, Wan Ahmad Farid expressed gratitude to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Malaysian government for the pay hike, describing it as “both timely and significant,” given that judges’ salaries had not been revised in a decade.
He pointed out that judges receive no annual increments, cannot hold outside employment, and are prohibited from engaging in business.
“The increment, in my opinion, contributes to promoting the independence of the judiciary,” he said.
“Let me reiterate that a fairly compensated judiciary serves as an important safeguard — helping to shield judges from undue influence, encouraging capable legal minds to step forward in service, and allowing those who sit on the Bench to discharge their duties without undue financial concern.”
He emphasised that higher remuneration carries heightened responsibility, urging judges to remain diligent, continuously expand their legal knowledge, and stay informed on societal developments.
Wan Ahmad also outlined plans to explore the introduction of performance-based incentives for Superior Court judges—those at the High Court level and above—who demonstrate discipline, diligence, and a sustained commitment to timely judgment delivery.
“If we were to punish those judges who are not doing their job, it’s only appropriate for us to give commendation to the judges who performed well, who did diligent work and ought to be recognised,” he said during a press conference. He cited Singapore as an example of a jurisdiction where such incentives are in place.
In a candid warning to judges facing backlogs, Wan Ahmad Farid reiterated that those unable to meet statutory eight-week deadlines for written judgments may consider resigning as a “dignified option,” noting the impact on the progress of appeals in the Court of Appeal.
“I know there are many judgments that remain unwritten. And there are limits to what we can do to assist judges who are struggling.
“We cannot allow the justice system to be disrupted. You know who you are,” he said, comparing delayed cases to a “hot kitchen” where pressures must be managed responsibly.
He clarified that his remarks were open to interpretation by judges, court staff, and lawyers from both government and private practice.
While most delayed cases relate to civil matters, he declined to disclose specific figures.
The Chief Justice’s address signals a concerted effort to strengthen judicial independence through fair compensation while stressing accountability and the importance of upholding timely justice in Malaysia’s courts. - January 12, 2026
