The Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) was established with the effect of the Judicial Appointments Commission Act 2009 (Act 695) gazetted on February 8, 2009.

The establishment of the Commission does not involve amendments to the Federal Constitution but was made through the amendment of the Parliament Act. The process under Act 695 on the appointment of judges is the process preceding the process of appointment under Article 122B of the Federal Constitution.

It purpose is to ensure that the process for the nomination, appointment and promotion of Superior court judges is more transparent and comprehensive.

The judges of the Superior courts are the Chief Justice of The Federal Court, the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judge of Malaya, the Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak, the Federal Court Judges, the Court of Appeal and the High Court Judges.

The establishment of the JAC is a step towards improving of the Judiciary and strengthening and enhancing the integrity of the institution. It will also fulfill the wishes and aspirations of the people to see transparency and justice in the country's judicial system.