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Former Chief Justice Richard Malanjum Admitted to Legal Practice

Richard Malanjum, 73, has been admitted as an advocate and solicitor following his tenure as Malaysia's first Bornean chief justice. Malanjum served in the nation's top judicial position for nine months.

LSN Malaysia · 18 August 2026

Former Chief Justice Richard Malanjum Admitted to Legal Practice

Richard Malanjum, the trailblazing jurist who became Malaysia's first chief justice from Borneo, has been formally admitted to practise as an advocate and solicitor, marking a new chapter in his legal career.

The 73-year-old's admission comes after he concluded his nine-month tenure as chief justice, during which he presided over Malaysia's highest court and shaped judicial decisions affecting the nation.

Malanjum's ascension to the chief justice position represented a significant milestone for the judicial system, breaking the traditional geographic concentration of the country's top legal office. His appointment was widely viewed as recognition of legal talent beyond the peninsula.

With his admission to legal practice, Malanjum joins the ranks of senior practitioners who continue to contribute to Malaysia's legal profession following distinguished judicial careers. His extensive experience on the bench is expected to bring substantial expertise to his new role in private practice.