Appellate court blocks bid to compel action against preacher
The court dismissed the appeal by the Global Human Rights Federation (GHRF), Parti Bangsa Dayak Sarawak, Sarawak Association for People's Aspiration, Ex-Students of Chinese Schools, and Pertubuhan Malaysia Tamilar Munnetra Kalagam.
Lawyer T Gunaseelan, who appeared for the applicants, told Malaysiakini that...
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The Star
8 hours ago
- The Star
PBS, Sabah STAR working to resolve differences ahead of state polls
Acting Parti Bersatu Sabah president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam (seated right) and Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan (seated second righ) said they have ironed out differences ahead of 17th Sabah Election. KOTA KINABALU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Sabah STAR are working to resolve differences over unity and seat distribution as the 17th state election approaches. Both parties aim to address overlapping seat claims and ensure cooperation under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition. Acting PBS president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the party is eyeing about 12 seats, while Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said his party is considering contesting fewer than 15 seats under the GRS banner. While acknowledging some overlaps remain, both leaders said these issues are being resolved internally and do not pose a major hurdle. Speaking during the joint PBS–Sabah STAR Convention, they confirmed a mutual agreement not to contest seats currently held by either party. 'We have already identified the overlapping seats, but they are not difficult to resolve. 'We want to ensure there is no clash on the ground between PBS and Sabah STAR candidates. Don't worry about it, we are all gentlemen,' said Dr Gunsalam He added that both parties will also avoid seats currently held by other GRS components to preserve unity. PBS currently holds seven seats, while Sabah STAR holds six of the 73 elected seats in the assembly. Asked whether they support a GRS-led solo run in the state election, Dr Gunsalam said it would only make sense if all component parties contest as a bloc. 'If PBS and STAR go solo, it's suicidal. But if GRS as a whole contests solo, that is acceptable. What's important is for GRS to remain dominant,' he said. Kitingan echoed the sentiment, saying he preferred GRS to contest under a single banner. 'The earlier solo announcement by GRS received good support. It removes complications,' he said, adding that seat allocations for Pakatan Harapan should be limited to '15 and below.' 'If they don't use the GRS symbol, we would be giving away losing seats,' he said. Both PBS and Sabah STAR are primarily targeting native non-Muslim majority areas, estimated at between 23 and 25 seats. Discussions are ongoing not only between the two parties but also with other GRS component parties to ensure a united front in the upcoming polls. 'Our main focus is to ensure a GRS victory. We are not being picky … the goal is to select the best candidates for the coalition as a whole,' said Dr Gunsalam.
Malaysiakini
16 hours ago
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When lawyers walked: Revisiting past marches for democracy, justice
The Malaysian Bar has decided to stage another public march on July 14 to demand judicial independence. This follows former chief justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat's retirement on July 1, with no successor yet appointed. Currently, Chief Judge of Malaya Hasnah Hashim has been appointed as the acting chief justice. In addition, Court of Appeal president Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim also retired on July 3, with no replacement named. Federal Court judge Zabariah Yusof has temporarily assumed the role. Malaysian Bar president Ezri Abdul Wahab said the planned 'Walk to Safeguard Judicial Independence' event is...
Borneo Post
19 hours ago
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SUPP Youth chief urges swift action to address judicial leadership vacuum
Lau urges the federal government to swiftly address growing concerns over a potential leadership vacuum at the highest levels of the judiciary. SIBU (July 12): Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP) Youth Chief Councillor Kevin Lau has called for urgent action to safeguard the independence, stability, and integrity of Malaysia's judiciary, stressing that these principles are enshrined in the Federal Constitution. He urged the federal government to swiftly address growing concerns over a potential leadership vacuum at the highest levels of the judiciary. Lau emphasised that this is not merely an institutional matter, but a national issue that, if left unresolved, could significantly erode public confidence in the judicial system. 'Public trust in the judiciary is paramount, and that trust hinges on a transparent, fair, and credible appointment process,' he said in a statement. Lau pointed out that the recent retirements of the Chief Justice and the President of the Court of Appeal – along with reports indicating that over half the current Federal Court bench is due to retire this year – have raised serious concerns about judicial succession. He acknowledged that these retirements are expected under the judicial tenure system but said the apparent absence of clear succession planning undermines public assurance in the judiciary's stability. 'We must remember that the judiciary is one of the three pillars of democracy. The moment its leadership appears uncertain or unprepared for succession, the risk of undermining the public's trust in our legal system increases significantly. 'The perception of stability, impartiality and continuity is essential for the rule of law to function effectively in any democratic society,' Lau said. Commenting on recent interim appointments – where Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Hasnah Hashim has been named Acting Chief Justice, and Federal Court Judge Datuk Zabariah Yusof is serving as Acting President of the Court of Appeal – Lau warned that holding dual roles at the top level may compromise judicial efficiency and accountability. 'While we acknowledge that interim measures are sometimes necessary, the fact that two of the most senior judges are now shouldering two top-tier judicial positions concurrently is far from ideal,' said Lau. 'These roles each demand full focus, dedication, and time. To expect one individual to bear the burden of two major national responsibilities is unsustainable and unjust to the office and to the persons carrying them.' Lau urged the federal government to act swiftly and decisively to fill the top judicial posts through a process that upholds transparency, impartiality, and strict adherence to the Federal Constitution. He also stressed the importance of preserving the independence and integrity of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), which plays a critical role in identifying and recommending the most qualified and impartial candidates for appointment to the superior courts. SUPP Youth, Lau said, fully supports the recent statement by Istana Negara emphasising the importance of constitutional compliance and integrity in judicial appointments. He lauded the King's principled stand, noting that the appointment of top judges is a national issue that must be handled with care, transparency, and without undue influence or delay. 'We hope all political parties, civil society, and legal institutions heed the wisdom in the King's message. 'This is a moment for all Malaysians to unite in defence of judicial independence and constitutional integrity. It is not about partisan politics – it is about ensuring that justice is preserved for all, without fear or favour,' said Lau. judiciary Kevin Lau SUPP Youth
