“Malanjum has a proven track record and has proven himself throughout the years with his exemplary achievements.
“He is the most senior and most experienced judge at the Federal Court today and he should be given the opportunity to serve as our chief justice,” said Tangau.
Current Chief Justice Raus Sharif, whose appointment has been shrouded in controversy, has tendered his resignation, effective July 31.
Tangau, who is also Sabah deputy chief minister, said it was time for the government of the day to walk the talk and pick a good candidate, having spoken so much about meritocracy.
“I remember many notable things that Malanjum has done over the years. One of the most transformative, but perhaps not known by many, was his determination to transform the Sabah and Sarawak court system a couple of years back.
“Malanjum believed strongly that we needed to upgrade and transform the courts by introducing the e-filing system for all the courts for court processes.
“Instead of suggesting and waiting for someone else to do it, he actually funded the entire exercise by forking out his own money to implement the new system,” Tangau said.
Tangau said the e-filing system introduced and implemented by Malanjum proved to be very effective and this showed that he was a leader.
Besides, Tangau said, Malanjum was hands-on, apart from being known to be effective and approachable.
“This is particularly important because one of the responsibilities of the chief justice is to manage all the judges and maintain the relationship with the Bar, as well as maintain the efficacy of the courts. He is the right man to take up this position,” he added.
Furthermore, Tangau said, as Malanjum was also a KDM, the community was proud that he had contributed so much to Malaysia as a judge and had accomplished what few had been able to achieve in the legal fraternity.
“He is an exemplary Malaysian and a leading role model for our youths,” he said.
Earlier the United People’s Party (UPP) and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) had called for Malanjum to be appointed as chief justice of Malaysia.
The Dayak National Congress (DNC) in Sarawak had also given its support to Malanjum.