'I can now breathe a sigh of relief', says Tengku Maimun
Speaking at the launch of her book Behind the Gavel, Tengku Maimun reflected on her time at the helm of the judiciary, noting that she and her colleagues had worked tirelessly to restore public confidence in the institution.
The Kelantan-born judge reiterated that she had never aspired to the top judicial post.
"As I have said before, I never sought the position of Chief Justice. It was never in my wildest dreams to imagine that someone like me would be selected to hold the position.
"I accepted the job as a test from Allah, to measure my commitment to the rule of law and the principles of the Islamic faith, such as honesty and integrity.
"I still find it hard to fathom that I spent six years of my life as Chief Justice, and that I am now retired after a lifetime of service.
"I am happy to reach the time when I must finally hang up my judicial robe. From the book, I hope it is clear that I have done my part for the country and the rule of law," she said.
Chief Justice of Singapore, Sundaresh Menon, was also present at the event and officiated the launch of the book.
Tengku Maimun said public attention, including her own, is now on the government and the incoming Chief Justice.
"It is about how they uphold the standards of judicial independence and integrity," she said.
Tengku Maimun retired upon turning 66 on July 2, the mandatory retirement age for judges.
Earlier, the Chief Registrar's Office announced that Chief Judge of Malaya, Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim, has assumed the role and is carrying out the duties of Chief Justice following Tengku Maimun's retirement.
The Chief Registrar's Office said the appointment was made in accordance with Article 131A of the Federal Constitution and Sections 9(1)(b) and 9(3) of the Courts of Judicature Act.
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