PUTRAJAYA decided to dial back on the ratification of Rome Statute to avoid giving the “deep state” any issue to exploit, said Khalid Samad.

“The existence of the deep state means issues like these will be exploited. There are many issues we have to handle and there is no need for us to open up any more front to be exploited.

“There are sufficient issues to handle without adding more to them,” the Federal Territories minister told reporters at the Parliament lobby today.

A coup is possible as the “deep state” is attacking the government on Malay and royalty issues, he said.

“Nothing is impossible, especially if 70% of the population are Malays and they are sufficiently influenced to believe that the position of the Malays is in danger.

“As you know the police and military are fundamentally Malay-based institutions. That’s why it’s very important for us to handle these issues with care,” said the Shah Alam MP.

Deep state refers to a clandestine network entrenched inside the government bureaucracy and entities to control state policy behind the scenes.

Citing the Mohamed Morsi government in Egypt, which was toppled one year after its election, Khalid said a coup is possible in Malaysia.

“The sense of insecurity and uncertainty with the emergence of a new government from elections had been capitalised by the deep state. They should be less susceptible but it happened.”

Whenever there is a change in governments after a long time like Malaysia, there exists quarters who do not agree with the change, said Khalid.

These groups exists within the administration, he said.

“The members of the royalty and academics have come up with statements portraying the Rome Statute as jeopardising the position of the royalty. We have to take this issue into consideration before we ratify the Rome Statute.

“We respect the views of the monarchy and the academics but I think it’s time people decide based on facts and allow this issue to be debated.”

Foreign Affairs Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said the government was forced to reverse its decision on ratifying the Rome Statute over fears of a coup. – April 8, 2019.