KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 — Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has decreed that the new prime minister to be appointed must seek a vote of confidence as soon as possible to determine his legitimacy and majority support in the Dewan Rakyat.
Comptroller of the Royal Household of Istana Negara Datuk Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin, in a statement issued today, said His Majesty had decreed this following an audience with leaders and representatives of major political parties yesterday.
His Majesty decreed that the appointment of the prime minister was in accordance with Article 40(2)(a) and 43(2)(a) of the Federal Constitution.
“In this regard, His Majesty further said that as the Head of State, His Majesty will exercise his duties as the Constitutional Monarch based on the supremacy of the Constitution and the Rule of Law,” said Ahmad Fadil.
Also in attendance during the more than 90-minute long audience session yesterday was the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah, who is the Timbalan Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
The Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Azhar Azizan Harun and Attorney-General Tan Sri Idrus Harun also attended the audience.
“His Majesty will chair a special meeting of the Malay Rulers to discuss current issues on Aug 20, 2021 (Friday),” he said.
Ahmad Fadil said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong also advised victorious political party leaders and representatives to extend a hand of cooperation to those who are not successful and to work as a team to maintain harmony.
He said His Majesty and the Sultan of Perak expressed the view that a protracted political crisis can jeopardise government administration at a time when the nation is facing the COVID-19 pandemic.
“His Majesty and His Highness stressed that the ongoing political crisis and uncertainties have had a negative impact on the country’s economy, and added that due to safety concerns, holding the 15th General Election is not the best option at this time.
He said both Rulers also felt that the need for members of the Dewan Rakyat to unite and for all political parties to work together by focusing on current issues and resolving the uncertainties as soon as possible.
Sources: BERNAMA