THE Pakatan Harapan government must consider decentralising its powers, in line with the true spirit of federalism and the constitution, said the Negri Sembilan head of state.

“Recently, Malaysians showed the world that they want the country to be a better democracy,” said Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

“I hope that the new federal government will work with state governments, and seriously consider issues of fiscal decentralisation and posit autonomy to the states, drawing on the best practices of other federations.

“This is in accordance with the true spirit of the constitution.”

He was speaking at the launch of former Court of Appeal judge Mohd Hishamudin Mohd Yunus’ book, Celebrating Judicial Independence, in Kuala Lumpur today.

Tuanku Muhriz said although the country was set up as a federalism, it has come to be known as “the most centralised of federations”.

On Hishamudin’s career on the bench, he said the former judge was “a man who upheld and respected judicial ethics”.

“Despite serving on the bench during some of the most turbulent years of the judiciary, he served with integrity. He begged to differ while upholding the constitution.”

Tuanku Muhriz said independence is the soul of the judiciary, and judges must steadfastly hold on to this.

“Although, the power to legislate is vested in Parliament and state assemblies, it is on judges and their wisdom that we place our trust to interpret and apply the law honestly.”

He said the qualities of a good judge include upholding independence and integrity, maintaining impartiality, avoiding impropriety of any kind, and demonstrating patience and compassion in making rulings.

“As such, we must leave judges to decide without fear or favour.”

The book launch was attended by Chief Justice Richard Malanjum, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof, Election Commission chairman Azhar Azizan Harun, Securities Commission chairman Syed Zaid Albar, and 46 judges and judicial commissioners. – November 8, 2018.