He encouraged Putrajaya to draw the best practices from other democratic federations around the world.
“Due to political considerations over the years, Malaysia has come to be known as one of the most centralised of federations.
“Recently the rakyat has shown the world that Malaysia can be a better democracy.
“I hope the new federal government will work with the state government to seriously consider issues of fiscal decentralisation and policy autonomy in the states, drawing the best practices from other democratic federations around the world,” he said.
Tuanku Muhriz said this during his royal address at the launch of former Court of Appeal judge Hishamudin Yunus’ book titled ‘Celebrating Judicial Independence’ at the Hilton Hotel by premier legal firm Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill.
He said the concept of judicial independence does not only preserve the sanctity of the judiciary but also maintains high esteem for the judiciary.
He reminded judges that it is their responsibility to abide by their oath and to always remind themselves that their decisions would have profound impact on society.
“Although the power to legislate rested with Parliament, it is upon judges and their wisdom that we place our trust to interpret and apply the law honestly and learnedly whether as per the objective of the law or purposely as intended by the legislature.
“It is imperative that the judiciary appreciates this so that our confidence in the judicary remains unshaken,” he said.
Tuanku Muhriz also said that good judges must also demonstrate patience and compassion in the decision-making process.
He added, in this context, Malaysians must respect and leave it to judges to discharge their duties without fear or favour.
“It is my hope that judges will always uphold fundamental principles enshrined in our constitution,” he said.
He then applauded Hishamudin, saying that the latter’s judgements epitomised a man who respects and uphold judicial ethics.
Tuanku Muhriz then said he is proud that Negeri Sembilan had managed to produced this legal mind.