THE FIRST KADAZANDUSUN TO BE CHIEF JUDGE

Malanjum The First Kadazandusun To Be Chief Judge

Commentary By

Allan Dumbong

Comment:

Who said a Kadazandusun "Tidak Boleh"? If given the chance, an indigenous of Borneo could definitely make it to the top. Following is an example, i.e a success story about our fellow countryman, Datuk Richard Malanjum. All of us, especially the young Kadazandusuns should emulate the exemplary attitude and determination of this judge. At the same time, it is hoped that the Federal & State Governments could look into the hidden and "untapped" talents of the Kadazandusuns, by giving them the equal chance and opportunity to secure scholarships, jobs & promotions in the civil service and universities, government contracts, and trainings etcs. Surely, these people have the right attitude to serve and help to build this beloved Nation, Malaysia.

KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) -- Federal Court Judge Datuk Richard Malanjum was appointed Sabah and Sarawak High Court Chief Judge, making him the first Kadazandusun to hold the post.Malanjum, who succeeds Tan Sri Datuk Amar Steve Shim Lip Kiong who retired last week, received his appointment letter from Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Syed Putra Jamalullail at Istana Negara.Malanjum, 54, born on Oct 13, 1952 in Tuaran, Sabah, obtained his law degree from London University.He had served as Deputy Public Prosecutor before starting his own legal practice, Messrs Richard Malanjum & Co.Malanjum was also president of the Sabah Law Association and represented the state in the Lower Court Rules Committee.He joined the judiciary in 1992 when he was appointed Sabah High Court Judge before being sworn in as Court of Appeal Judge in 2003.On June 17, 2005, Malanjum was appointed a Federal Court Judge, and the youngest to be appointed to the post.He received the "Pingat Gemilang Darjah Kinabalu" award from Sabah in 1998 and the "Sri Indera Mahkota Pahang" award in 2004.Malanjum is married to Datin Marina Tiu, 52, and they have three children, Jessica Eleanor, 22, Edgar Richard, 20, and Carl Barnabas, 17.-- BERNAMA