As a practising lawyer and member of the MCA Youth Central Committee, I wish to express my support for DAP’s recent public statement urging the government to extend the tenure of Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat and Court of Appeal President Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim. 

While MCA and DAP represent different political ideals, we believe we can find common ground in defending the impartiality and independence of the judiciary — values that must transcend politics. Tun Tengku Maimun and Tan Sri Abang Iskandar have each contributed immensely to judicial reform and the rule of law, maintaining a clear separation between the judiciary and political influence. Their continued leadership would strengthen public confidence in our legal system.

That said, it is important to ensure this is not just another press statement that leads nowhere. DAP holds several key positions within the Cabinet, and if it is genuinely committed to institutional integrity, it must use that influence to secure the necessary support within government — not just issue statements for headlines.

Former Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has rightly argued that continuity and merit must guide judicial appointments. I echo this sentiment, and urge the government to act in the nation’s best interest — not out of political convenience but in defence of institutional excellence.

This is not about personalities, but about protecting an institution that must remain impartial and above politics. MCA Youth is prepared to work with DAP, the Bar Council, HAKAM and other civil society stakeholders to safeguard judicial independence and ensure that decisions of such importance are not reduced to political theatre.

The public is watching — and real leadership means delivering results, not just press statements.

Andy Teoh Tuck Wah (practising lawyer)
MCA Youth Central Committee
MCA Youth Chief for Petaling Jaya Division

2 July 2025

-MCA Comm-