RECENT events over the weekend, and its subsequent resolve, have shown us the need for an effective check and balance to the politicians in the Dewan Negara and Dewan Rakyat – and why Malaysians are lucky to have a constitutional monarch helming our country.

On October 23, the cabinet agreed to consider a declaration of emergency as Covid-19 cases were rising rapidly around the country, which will allow the suspension of Parliament and postponement of any elections, as well as empower the federal government to push through policies without the need for voting. 

While there is a logical and rational reason for an emergency, in light of the incessant politicking among the politicians, it would have had disastrous effects on the economy, with foreign investors pulling out and the wellbeing of our people – and our country’s image globally – continue to slide. 

Calling an emergency, in short, is a serious matter to consider – as we had only called for a nationwide emergency twice: during Konfrontasi and the May 13, 1969 race riots. 

Fortunately, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, following a discussion with the Malay rulers and taking into account the country’s situation, decided against it.  

Article 150(1) of the federal constitution states that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong may issue a Proclamation of Emergency if he is satisfied that a grave emergency exists.

As the current government has been handling the pandemic well under the leadership of Muhyiddin Yassin, there is no need for an emergency to be declared. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong also reiterated his belief the government will continue to enact sound policies, and called on all politicians to stop disrupting the stability we have, and to support the Budget 2021 as we fight Covid-19.

In grappling with the reality of the pandemic, leaders everywhere should prioritise the people – which was further highlighted by the Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim. In his statement, Tunku Ismail also underlined the role of the monarchy in providing the necessary checks and balances needed in times like these. 

The focus should be on the welfare of the people and ensuring that the economy recovers efficiently, as Tunku Ismail wisely said. While the role of the monarchy should not be in question as it has been enshrined in our constitution and make-up, now more than ever it has further proved its vital role in providing check and balance.

Politicians are often tempted with their desire to cling to power, and we are not infallible human beings after all. We have, from time to time, witnessed various political crisis. However, the Malay rulers form the vital royal institution that serves to ensure the nation’s stability, and protect it from internal and external threats that may affect this – and the royal institution throughout the various political crises that happened in our nation served as the effective check and balance mechanism.

The wisdom of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Malay rulers have shown us we are fortunate to have such a dynamic governance system – a constitutional monarchy with a democratic parliament, which will ensure both continued stability as well as the freedom to vote. 

Tunku Ismail’s statement, echoed by the statement released by the Keepers of the Rulers Seal, also highlighted the importance of this institution in ensuring the people’s voices and welfare are prioritised in generations to come. 

Daulat Tuanku. – October 26, 2020.

* Syed Kamal reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.