AFTER delivering the judgment in the appeal case of Muda secretary-general Amir Hariri Abdul Hadi, the proceedings at the Federal Court turned into a farewell ceremony.
Several lawyers rose to give farewell and birthday wishes to Chief Justice, Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat and President of the Court of Appeal, Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim.
Tengku Maimun will end her service today as tomorrow she will reach the mandatory retirement age while Judge Abang Iskandar will end his service tomorrow.
Senior lawyer, Datuk Gurdial Singh Nijar was also seen slightly tearful when presenting his appreciation.
“There is no doubt that Yang Amat Arif Tun's retirement was accompanied by various achievements and recognition from many quarters including lawyers.
"Under your leadership, the judiciary’s credibility has been restored and reached a level on par with the best judiciary in the Commonwealth and has wiped away the lowest point marked by the 1988 judicial crisis," he said.
He also said that recent calls for extensions of the CJ’s tenure were not an attempt to “politicise” the issue but partly because of Tengku Maimun's judgments which he described as on par with the best in the Commonwealth.
A similar speech was also given by Malaysian Bar vice-president Anand Raj.
“Tun (Tengku Maimun) has made hundreds of judgments including 92 judgments in the name of the Chief Justice. Today’s decision can also be added to that number.
“During the pandemic, Tun has brought about changes in the judiciary to enable virtual proceedings.
“Yang Amat Arif has brought about change, improvement. Yang Amat Arif is a pioneer, an inspiration,” he said.
Anand said the Malaysian Bar wished to express its profound gratitude for Tengku Maimun’s visionary leadership and her exceptional service.
Other lawyers who also expressed their gratitude to Tengku Maimun and Abang Iskandar were Lim Wei Jiet and Raja Eileen Soraya Raja Aman.
Tengku Maimun then expressed her gratitude for all the appreciation and support given to her and Abang Iskandar in carrying out their responsibilities.
“I would like to thank you for all the appreciation and speeches given. Thank you for all the support given to the judiciary. When this body is ‘attacked’, you all defend it.
“Thank you and I wish you all the best,” said Tengku Maimun. - July 1, 2025
