Chief Judge of Malaya Arifin Zakaria has been appointed the new Chief Justice, replacing Zaki Tun Azmi, who is retiring this month.
According to Prime Minister Najib Razak, the appointment was endorsed by the King in accordance with the Federal Constitution.
In a statement issued by his office, Najib also said the King has also appointed Zulkefli Ahmad Makinudin as Chief Judge of Malaya to succeed Arifin, whereas Federal Court Judge Md Raus Sharif has been appointed to be the President of the Court of Appeal, replacing Alauddin Mohd Sheriff, who has opted for early retirement.
Najib also said all appointments would be effective September 12, 2011.
"On behalf of the government, I wish to record my highest thanks and appreciation to Tun Zaki Tun Azmi for his contribution and service during his term in office as the Chief Justice, especially in transforming the judiciary and clearing the backlog of cases at all leveles of the court," Najib said.
"I also announce the early retirement of Tan Sri Alauddin Mohd Sheriff, the President of the Court of Appeal, at the age of 65 has also been approved by the King. The government wishes to thank him for his contribution to the judiciary especialy in the Court of Appeal."
According to Najib, the Court registry will arrange a date with the Palace on when to hold the appointment and oath-taking ceremony.
