MADANI Government Committed to Judicial Appointment Reforms, Reviewing SPK Act

Credit Photo : PMO

PUTRAJAYA – The MADANI Government, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the judicial appointment process through a comprehensive review of the Judicial Appointments Commission Act 2009 (SPK Act), following a legal challenge filed in the High Court regarding the Act’s constitutional validity. 

In a media statement today, Anwar said the government respects the right of individuals to seek constitutional interpretation through judicial channels, in line with the principles of constitutional democracy that uphold the rule of law. He assured that the court process would proceed without any interference or prejudice. 

“The government acknowledges that the structure, membership, and role of the Judicial Appointments Commission (SPK) in the judicial appointment process have long been questioned by various parties, including the judiciary, the Bar Council, and civil society organizations (NGOs). This is a serious matter that demands thorough examination from legal, institutional, and constitutional perspectives,” he said. 

While the government will defend the validity of the SPK Act in court, Anwar expressed its intention to undertake a holistic review of the SPK framework. The review aims to ensure that the judicial appointment process reflects transparency and judicial independence, without compromising the role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong or the privileges of the Malay Rulers as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. 

He added that the review would involve consultations and collaboration with stakeholders, including the judiciary, the Conference of Rulers, the Bar Council, and NGOs. “The goal is to address any shortcomings and bolster public confidence in the integrity of the nation’s justice system,” he stated. 

Anwar emphasized that any reforms introduced would be grounded in constitutional principles, including preserving the doctrine of separation of powers, upholding the constitutional monarchy, and reinforcing the rule of law. “Only with this strong foundation can we ensure long-term stability and safeguard the nation’s democratic system,” he said. 

The MADANI Government, he further noted, remains committed to governance with integrity and will act transparently, responsibly, and with respect for constitutional institutions in addressing this critical issue.