CHIEF Judge of Malaya, Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim, will assume the powers and responsibilities of the Chief Justice following the retirement of Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, Malaysia’s first female Chief Justice.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Chief Registrar of the Federal Court on Thursday, the appointment is in accordance with Article 131A of the Federal Constitution and Sections 9(1)(b) and 9(3) of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964 [Act 91].
"The assumption of duties also includes all constitutional functions of the Chief Justice until the position is officially filled," the statement said.
"The Malaysian judiciary remains steadfast in its responsibility as the guardian of justice and will continue to serve the people and the nation with unwavering dedication."
Hasnah was appointed as Chief Judge of Malaya on 12 November 2024, a position that ranks among the highest within the Malaysian judicial system.
Her predecessor, Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, served as Chief Justice for six years before retiring on Wednesday. She made history upon her appointment on 2 May 2019 as the first woman to hold the office in the nation’s history.
Earlier, the Malaysian Bar expressed concern over the vacancy left by Tengku Maimun’s departure. Its president, Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab, said the situation highlighted a lack of a clear and timely succession plan.
"The vacancy reflects an institutional failure and may undermine public confidence in the judiciary," he said. - July 3, 2025
