His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, delivered his royal address at the opening of the First Meeting of the Third Session of the 15th Parliament today.
- Would not entertain attempts from any quarters that jeopardises the country’s political stability
- Gave ‘green light’ to Speaker to ban for 14 days MPs who do not behave well
- Would assess the government’s expenditures to ensure public funds spent for right purpose
- Would not tolerate those playing up 3R issues
The King, in his, 28-minute-long speech stressed on several key points, notably the conduct and responsibilities of parliamentarians.
Sultan Ibrahim today warned that he would not entertain attempts from any quarters that jeopardises the country’s political stability.
His Majesty said all parties must respect the unity government that was formed after the 15th General Election (GE15) in 2022.
He added that any quarters who wish to engage in political affairs must also wait for the right time such as the elections.
Sultan Ibrahim has given the “green light” to the Dewan Rakyat Speaker to take action against any member of Parliament who “go overboard” in Parliament.
His Majesty said the Dewan Rakyat Speaker could ban MPs who do not behave well for 14 days.
Sultan Ibrahim said the Parliament was a place where lawmakers gathered to make the rules and should therefore abide by the rules that they make.
Sultan Ibrahim reminded MPs to observe decorum and to lead by example.
“I’d like to remind ‘Yang Berhormat’ (MPs) that the parliament is a place for legislators to legislate laws. And all of you here are legislators.
“And therefore, it would be ridiculous if the legislators themselves fail to abide by the laws that they legislated,” the King said.
Sultan Ibrahim has expressed dismay over the country’s fiscal deficit which has remained stagnant since 1998.
His Majesty said he would assess the government’s expenditures to ensure that public funds were being spent for the right purpose.
“Will such a burden be left for our grandchildren to bear? Hence, I will ensure that every expenditure suggestion is for the right purpose, and I hope that under my reign, the government is able to achieve a fiscal surplus every year,” His Majesty said.
There will be zero tolerance for those playing up 3R (race, religion, and royalty) issues, decreed His Majesty.
“I call on all levels of society to strengthen national unity and not to incite emotions by harping on the 3R.”
“We are all aware that the Federal Constitution is the supreme law of the land which must be respected.
“This was the result of the agreement among Malay Rulers to establish a federation and to empower Parliament to enact laws,” His Majesty said.
Sultan Ibrahim said the Federal Constitution recognises Islam as the religion of the Federation and this will continue to be preserved.
“Other religions can be practised in peace and harmony but they should not proselytise Muslims.
“Therefore, there should not be attempts by any party to manipulate and politicise this basic foundation of the Constitution,” said Sultan Ibrahim.
His Majesty called upon the government machinery to improve its integrity and efficiency of work ethics to achieve economic development.
“I dislike systems which involve excessive red tape. Therefore, the efficiency of work processes and governance must be constantly evaluated and improved.
“I sincerely hope that enforcement agencies will be more expeditious and efficient in their investigations to ensure prompt resolutions of cases.”