Attorney Hamid Ismail joined the judiciary as a commissioner after representing families in prominent legal battles throughout his 24-year career. The 49-year-old handled corruption and criminal matters while defending political figures such as former Sabah chief minister Shafie Apdal and opposition leaders. He served as lead counsel for the late student Zara Qairina Mahathir's relatives until August, when he secured an inquest into her contested death. Sessions Court judge Steve Ritikos and Sarawak lawyer Ratanah Devi Yusof Perumal received identical appointments.
Hamid previously held positions within PAS and campaigned for state legislature seats in 2013 and 2018. His legal team pressed authorities to reopen investigations and conduct post-mortem examinations on Zara's remains. Colleagues praised his dedication to the case from initial filings through inquest proceedings. The lawyers expressed gratitude for his guidance during complex investigations that demanded thorough evidence gathering and persistent advocacy.
Hamid previously held positions within PAS and campaigned for state legislature seats in 2013 and 2018. His legal team pressed authorities to reopen investigations and conduct post-mortem examinations on Zara's remains. Colleagues praised his dedication to the case from initial filings through inquest proceedings. The lawyers expressed gratitude for his guidance during complex investigations that demanded thorough evidence gathering and persistent advocacy.
