Malaysia’s MADANI Government Announces Major Judicial Reform Review

Kuala Lumpur, April 9, 2025 – In a significant move toward institutional reform, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed today that the MADANI government will conduct a comprehensive review of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) framework, including the JAC Act. The announcement signals a proactive step to strengthen Malaysia’s judicial system, with the government pledging to engage a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the process reflects constitutional balance, bolsters public confidence, and upholds the judiciary’s independence and integrity.

The timing of the Prime Minister’s statement has drawn attention, coming just a day after YAA Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat addressed the role of the Prime Minister in judicial appointments. Observers suggest this may indicate a coordinated push to address long-standing concerns about the judicial appointment process.

The announcement also marks a notable policy shift for the MADANI government. Earlier this year, Bangi Member of Parliament Syahredzan Johan had raised a Parliamentary question regarding potential amendments to the JAC Act. At the time, the government indicated no concrete plans were in place for such a review. Today’s development, however, suggests a renewed commitment to reform.

Speaking as both a lawyer and lawmaker, Syahredzan Johan, who also serves as DAP National Vice Chairman, welcomed the announcement. “It again shows the willingness of the MADANI government to embark upon institutional reforms,” he said in a statement. He emphasized the importance of beginning stakeholder engagement promptly to gather diverse perspectives on how best to enhance the system.

The review is seen as a critical opportunity for the current Parliament to leave a lasting legacy by enacting reforms that ensure judicial independence and protect it from external interference. “A free and independent judiciary is the bulwark of civil liberties and safeguards our long-established constitutional framework,” Syahredzan added.

As Malaysia awaits further details on the engagement process, the announcement has sparked hope that these reforms could strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions for years to come.