Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria reminded the judiciary not to abuse their position and to avoid exposure to corrupt practices.

Arifin said judges and officers should continue to maintain the dignity and integrity of their office.

"We should at all times conduct ourselves in a manner befitting our position in society.

"Always bear in mind that your conduct, be it private or in official capacity is subject to public scrutiny. In conducting a trial, do it with all the decorum," he said during the opening of the legal year at Putrajaya today.

Arifin said the introduction of audio-video recording in court has resulted in fewer complaints of judges and lawyers misbehaving.

He also urged lawyers to stop making wild and baseless accusations against judges.

"This is because your words are taken seriously by the public. Such allegations may undermine the integrity of the judiciary," said Arifin.

Although the CJ did not refer to any particular incident, he is believed to be hinting at the VK Lingam tape saga and allegations of plagiarism by a senior judge.

Judges only human

Arifin also reaffirmed the judges’ commitment to the rule of law and to independence of the judiciary.

"Adherence to these two basic principles is of critical importance to the judiciary in order to gain the respect and confidence of the public.

"Former Australia chief justice Murray Gleeson, said, ‘Judges place such emphasis upon maintaining both the reality and the appearance of independence and impartiality.’ These are rules and conventions designed to secure and maintain the same confidence," he said.

Justice Arifin said judges being human are likely to make erroneous decisions.

"That is acceptable provided the decisions are not tainted with bias or prejudice, and is free from any interference.

"As judges, we are accountable to no one but the law, which must be administered without fear or favour, affection or ill will."