Kuala lumpur: Chief Justice Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh has emphasized that the recent 30 per cent salary increase for judges is a meaningful commitment to judicial independence, noting that judges do not receive annual increments and are restricted from holding other offices or engaging in business.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, during the Opening of the Legal Year 2026, Wan Ahmad Farid extended his gratitude to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Government of Malaysia for the pay adjustment, describing it as both timely and significant. He highlighted that this is the first adjustment in a decade, recognizing the unique demands of judicial office and underscoring its significance in promoting judicial independence.

The adjustment, now gazetted, took effect from January 1 and fulfills a pledge made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the 2026 Budget. It applies to all judges, from the High Court to the Federal Court. Wan Ahmad Farid stressed that enhanced remuneration should be accompanied by heightened responsibility, urging judges to remain informed and engaged with legal and societal developments.

The Chief Justice reiterated that fair compensation is crucial for safeguarding the judiciary, allowing judges to perform their duties without undue financial concerns and fostering an environment where capable legal minds can serve without influence. He also mentioned his intention to explore performance-based incentives for Superior Court judges, a practice adopted in jurisdictions like Singapore, to encourage diligence and discipline in judicial duties.