PUTRAJAYA should work within the democratic system to fight the current Covid-19 pandemic, said Mohamad Hasan, as the government seeks consent from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to impose the emergency rule on the country.

The Umno deputy president said this pandemic will only be overcome with a scientific approach, a strengthened economy and by following provisions in the Federal Constitution.

“Something that reverses science, affects the economy and side-lines the constitution will put the country and Malaysians in a harder condition and only exacerbate the current situation.

“Handle this crisis by defending the constitution, allowing democracy to function, improve the response of the public health and safety system and prioritise the public’s safety by not adding to its difficulties,” he said in a post on Facebook today.

The former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar said the ability of the country’s health system to deal with the crisis has been tested and Malaysia is recognised as one of the countries to have the best system.

“Malaysia is not in economic paralysis. In fact, Malaysia is in a focused economic recovery, stimulated by economic stimulus packages that take into account the needs of the public. The health system, though under stress, is functioning well,” he said.

His statement comes after it was reported yesterday that the cabinet had decided to implement an emergency amid political instability and a heightened surge of the Covid-19 pandemic, a source told The Malaysian Insight.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday met with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah in Kuantan.

Today, the Comptroller of the Royal Household Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin said the Conference of Malay Rulers will meet soon to decide on the prime minister’s proposals.

However, Fadil did not reveal what the cabinet had proposed during the meeting with the king.

“Al-Sultan Abdullah was briefed about the decisions made by the cabinet.

“The king understands the need to battle the Covid-19 pandemic, is concerned about recent developments and, as such, has decided to consult the Malay rulers in Istana Negara,” said Fadil, who added that the king hopes that everyone will be patient while the rulers make their decision.

“The public is advised not to speculate, which could cause panic, and disrupt the peace and harmony of the country,” said Fadil. – October 24, 2020.