MALAYSIA could have avoided a four-year political turmoil if the events that led to former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s resignation did not happen, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah said.

“If the episodes that led to the resignation of the seventh prime minister did not happen, then surely the chain of political turmoil that lasted until the 15th general election could have been avoided.

“More importantly, the political turmoil that has plagued the country for almost four years could have been avoided if all MPs and politicians were willing to put aside their differences and unite solely on the basis of safeguarding the interests of the people and our beloved country,” the Agong said this when delivering his royal address at the 15 parliament’s first meeting of its second session.

The Agong, who was installed as the country’s 16th king in 2019, said his monarchy will go down in history as the first one to witness the collapse of three different governments and seen four prime ministers and cabinets.

“Sincerely, I hope (the appointment) of the 10th prime minister will be the last (of my reign) before I return to Pahang Darul Makmur,” the king said.

He said he has no intention of interfering in national politics and is merely carrying out his duties as king.

His Majesty said throughout his tenure, he has performed his duties in accordance with the oath he took.

The king, whose term will end January 30, 2024, urged politicians to put aside their narrow political agendas and come together in the name of unity for the betterment of the nation. 

“Serve sincerely as elected representatives who always have the interests of the people and the future of the country in your hearts,” the king said. 

The king paid tribute to the unwavering loyalty of civil servants, army personnel, police, health workers, and all government agency employees. 

“Thank you to all Malaysians who have lived peacefully and remained steadfast in facing the various challenges of the pandemic, economic stagnation, and the political crisis in the country,” the King added. 

The meeting today will continue until March 30 this year, with Budget 2023 set to be retabled on February 24. – February 13, 2023.

– February 13, 2023.