In a statement, PN chief whip Takiyuddin Hassan said judicial independence was the foundation of a mature democracy.

“Malaysians have a right to a legal system that functions ‘without fear or favour’ – one that is firm, fair, and independent.

“The decisions made now will shape public trust in the judiciary for decades to come,” he said, adding that the judiciary should be protected from any form of interference.

Before 1988, the constitution stated that judicial power was vested in the High Court of Malaya and the High Court of Sabah and Sarawak.

However, an amendment made during the tenure of former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the jurisdiction and power of the court “may be conferred by or under federal law”.

Takiyuddin, a lawyer by training, also called for the Judicial Appointments Commission to be given full autonomy to carry out its duties without political pressure, especially from the executive branch.

He said that recommended candidates must be chosen based on merit, integrity, and seniority, not political affiliations or preferences.