FEDERAL Court judge Idrus Harun has been appointed the attorney-general, replacing Tommy Thomas who resigned last week.

Idrus’s appointment was announced by the Prime Minister’s Office today, following Perikatan Nasional’s takeover of Putrajaya last week.

Idrus is elder brother to Election Commission chief Azhar Harun.

In a brief statement, the PMO said Idrus’ appointment was approved by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and is effective today.

According to his profile on the Federal Court website, Idrus was appointed Appeals Court judge on in September 2014, and elevated to the Federal Court on November 26, 2018.

Idrus was recommended for the post of A-G two years by former Federal Court judge Gopal Sri Ram.

Gopal had said in an interview that Idrus had credibility as he was previously a solicitor-general, had worked in the Attorney-General’s Chambers, and had knowledge of criminal prosecution.

“He comes from the chambers and was the former solicitor-general; he was eased out during the political machinations and thrust into the Court of Appeal,” Gopal said.

n an immediate reaction, the Malaysian Bar welcomed the appointment of Idrus as the new A-G.

It said Idrus has wide experience and exposure from his many years in the AGC and later, on the bench.

“The Bar believes Tan Sri would be able to carry out his duties efficiently and effectively to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour,” it said in a statement. – March 6, 2020.