Kuala lumpur: The tabling of the Special Select Committee report on the proposed separation of the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor in the Dewan Rakyat tomorrow marks a significant milestone in the government's institutional reform agenda, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina, in a statement today, said the report reflected the MADANI Government's commitment to strengthening the rule of law, institutional independence, and public confidence in the country's justice system. She explained that the committee, which convened seven times, had suggested seven key improvements to enhance the independence, integrity, and accountability of the Public Prosecutor's institution.

The proposals include enhancing Parliament's role in the appointment process, allowing the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to appoint the Public Prosecutor on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission (SPKP) without the involvement of the prime minister or the Cabinet, introducing a fixed non-renewable seven-year term, establishing a Code of Ethics for Public Prosecutors, and empowering Parliament to enact further legislation to strengthen the institution.

Azalina noted that the government had also proposed amendments to Clause (18) of Article 145A of the Federal Constitution to further elevate Parliament's role in appointing the Public Prosecutor. Under the proposed amendment, the SPKP would submit a candidate's name to the Dewan Rakyat Speaker for tabling and scrutiny by the House Select Committee before its recommendation is returned to the commission. The SPKP may then advise the King based on the candidate recommended by the Dewan Rakyat.

Azalina emphasized that the mechanism would bolster the system of checks and balances without compromising the independence of the Public Prosecutor or the constitutional role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. She asserted that this reform is aimed at creating a prosecution institution that is more independent, transparent, and accountable, thereby strengthening public confidence in the country's justice system. This, she stated, is the lasting legacy of the MADANI Government's institutional reform agenda, aimed at leaving behind stronger, more resilient institutions that command public confidence for the benefit of future generations.