The sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has reminded judges and judicial officers to always defend the integrity and independence of the judiciary.

This is because respect towards the judiciary and court decisions depends on the people’s confidence in the independence of judges, said the sultan.

“Therefore, judges must make professional decisions according to the constitution and the laws without being influenced by certain quarters or the fear of being criticised.

“Independence, peace, development and rule of law can only be ensured if the rakyat has full confidence in the independence and integrity of the judiciary," he said in his speech at the officiating ceremony of the Klang Court today.

A copy of the speech text was made available to Malaysiakini.

The Klang Court now has a new additional buillding, enabling all sessions and magistrates courts to be placed in one area.

The Selangor sultan expressed hope that this would result in court proceedings becoming more quick and efficient.

“Therefore, the problem of having to postpone cases which has burdened the court all this while will be reduced," he said.

The postponement of cases, said the ruler, had led to dissatisfaction among many quarters and this had affected the judiciary's image.

“As a result, society has a negative perception towards the courts and the public becomes disinclined to defend their rights in court."

The sultan also urged judicial officials and judges to fulfil their duties with full responsibility and professionalism at all times.

“With the full commitment of all quarters, I believe all court cases will be solved promptly and efficiently,” he said.

He also took the opportunity to praise the country’s Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria whom he said had taken various initiatives to gain the people’s confidence in the judiciary.

“All these efforts have successfully increased the courts’ efficiency. The administration of the courts will only be efficient if everyone responsible does their shared responsibility,” he said.