Unlike many others who had held high office, Tun Suffian refused to fade away on retirement. He continued to be active and was sought by many for his wise counsel. Internationally recognised and appointed to serve on important tribunals, he distinguished himself and brought honour to the country. An astute observer of events, he agonised over the decline of the judiciary and was scathing in his comments. Judges who did not, have been cowed into silence.
Judges are at sixes and sevens.
Some daren't speak to each other. While there are judges whose integrity and impartiality have never wavered, the public perception is that the judiciary as a whole can no longer be trusted to honour their oath of office. When I am asked what I thought, my usual reply is that I wouldn't like to be tried by today's judges, especially if I am innocent. He was of course referring to the infamous Tun Salleh Abas episode of 1988 which shook the very foundations of our nation. Salleh's unjust treatment and the injustice surrounding his dismissal flabbergasted him.