PRIME Minister Muhyiddin Yassin today called on the people, especially the politicians, to respect the emergency proclamation of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.

Muhyiddin told all parties to stop speculating the reasons for the emergency proclamation.

“The government obtained the consent of the Agong (to declare emergency rule) only after satisfying His Majesty that the transmission of Covid-19 in the country had reached a critical level,” he said.

He said the king’s order was also in line with the cabinet’s decision.

“The emergency decree of His Majesty was intended to give certain jurisdictions to the government to manage the Covid-19 pandemic more quickly, efficiently and effectively.”

The Agong’s decision has no purpose other than to curb the spread of Covid-19 and protect lives, he added. 

Muhyiddin said he is aware some lawmakers are trying to challenge the royal declaration but said he is unfazed.
 
He reminded the people that the situation is only temporary and called on everyone, irrespective of political loyalties, to work together in fighting the coronavirus.

“Although there are some trying to challenge the proclamation of emergency in court, I believe that His Majesty, as the head of the country, fully understands and respects the country’s legal system and process.

“Meanwhile, as the head of government, I also always respect the country’s legal system and process which are based on the system of constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. 

“I would like to reiterate my commitment to advise His Majesty to dissolve parliament as soon as the outbreak of Covid-19 has subsided and when it is safe to hold a general election.”

Several lawmakers, including opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, have applied for a judicial review of the government’s advice to the king to declare a state of emergency.

Anwar had said he also intended to appeal to the Agong to defend the federal constitution and the rakyat from the government’s abuse of power.

The Emergency Ordinance came into force on January 11 and is in effect until August 1. – February 4, 2021.