For 63-year-old Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, who hails from Kuala Terengganu, the thought of becoming Malaysia’s 17th chief justice never crossed his mind, until his appointment was officially inked in July.

Speaking to reporters at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya today, the former politician recalled the moments leading up to his appointment, especially as there was speculation that another individual, a Federal Court judge, would assume the post in replacing Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat.

“The decision came as a surprise to me. I was on the bench for 10 years, and about one year or so at the Court of Appeal… it is quite unprecedented for a Court of Appeal judge to be made a chief justice.

“This surprises me, and also my wife. I think it never...