Ragunath Kesavan said there was no urgency to extend judges’ tenure as that could stand in the way of promotion prospects for their juniors.

“A detailed discussion must be held with all interested groups before a decision is made,” he told FMT.

Ragunath said this in response to former de facto law minister Rais Yatim’s suggestion that the retirement age of judges be extended, as in other countries.

Rais, the adviser to the government on social and cultural matters, suggested the tenure be raised from the present 66 to either 70 or 75.

He said former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad retired at 77, but was still active at 91.

Rais said at 70, a judge might not have the adrenaline surges of a younger person, but “it is the dexterity, wisdom and brainpower that we want”.

Ragunath said former judges could serve as lecturers, arbitrators, legal consultants and even return to legal practice to keep themselves busy and earn a livelihood.

He said the prospect of juniors going up the judicial ladder would be affected if the present crop of judges in the apex court remained longer.

He said High Court and Court of Appeal judges would remain stagnant in their position and this was not good for their morale.

“Also, those in the civil service will also request the government to extend their retirement age,” he added.

Judges can remain on the bench for another six months after the mandatory retirement age of 66.

The Federal Constitution also allows the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, on the advice of the chief justice, to appoint additional judges on a contract basis.