Bringing you updates on the developing situation following the collapse of the 20-month-old Pakatan Harapan government yesterday.
Johor rep claims being coaxed to support coalition of Umno, PAS and PKR
11.15pm: A Johor assemblyperson claims there was an effort to convince them to leave their political party and Pakatan Harapan to form a government with Umno and PAS.
The rep, who spoke to Malaysiakini on condition of anonymity, claims to have been contacted by an individual trying to coax them into signing a statutory declaration to support a coalition made up of Umno, PAS, and some PKR defectors.
"The individual claimed that there are Amanah assemblyperson also ready to quit their party," the representative says.
Meanwhile, Johor state government mouthpiece Johorkini cites state assembly speaker Suhaizan Kaiat (photo) as saying that the state government is still intact pending the outcome of the situation in Putrajaya.
Suhaizan says the government that will be formed at the federal level will provide guidance on political alignments in the state.
Bersatu Youth backs Dr M, won’t work with Umno ‘en bloc’
10.50pm: Following a 90-minute meeting with Bersatu Youth exco and state leaders, chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman says the party wing will “uphold the people’s mandate during GE14” and not collaborate with Umno as a party.
“Bersatu Youth has decided to defend the principled decision of (interim prime minister) Dr Mahathir Mohamad to not work with an Umno led by Ahmad Zahid Hamidi en bloc.
“This is because of corruption issues, abuse of power and court cases involving top Umno leadership,” he says.
He declines to explain who Bersatu would work with now that the party had quit the Pakatan Harapan coalition.
“Just have faith in Mahathir, he will make the right decisions.
“All your questions and concerns, I believe he has the answer.
“He has already met up with the leaders of all parties.
"Give him faith that he will be able to carry it out,” Syed Saddiq hints before leaving in his car.
Earlier, he told the media that he backed Mahathir as prime minister.
Gathering at Dataran Merdeka ends
9.45pm: Dataran Merdeka - The gathering, which increased to about 80 people, ends, with the participants milling about and taking pictures.
Those in attendance have been invited to speak while standing on a bench, including activist Yu Ren Chung, student activist Wong Yan Ke and PSM secretary-general A Sivarajan.
“The elected representatives have failed us because politics is not just through the representatives. We have to build the people’s power. We have to equal our power with them.
“We respect what is happening at the palace, we let them discuss but the people’s voice must be heard,” Sivarajan says.
Wong echoes Sivarajan’s sentiment, saying it is time for the rakyat to stand up against the politicians and defend our own fate.
He also speaks about him being charged tomorrow under section 504 of the Penal Code for the intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace.
This is over his protest against Universiti Malaya vice-chancellor Abdul Rahim Hashim during a convocation ceremony last year.
“It’s not a coincidence. I wonder why it happened so suddenly and it happened four months after my case.
“Is it reasonable? It’s not reasonable,” he says.
Other speakers lead the participants in chants of “Hidup rakyat” (Long live the rakyat) and “Mampus politikus” (Die politicians).
Towards the end of the gathering, many in the crowd light white candles.
A small stand is also erected in the middle of the crowd with a poster saying “politikus bunuh demokrasi Malaysia” (Politicians killed Malaysia’s democracy) and participants are invited to throw flower petals over it.
Protest at Dataran Merdeka on backdoor gov't
8.30pm: Dataran Merdeka - About 50 people gather here to demonstrate against the recent political turmoil.
The participants carry placards with slogans such as “This is not what we voted for” and “Reforms please, not soap opera”.
A few of the participants are given the chance to address the crowd one by one.
“This is not what we voted for. What did we vote for? We voted for change. But what did we get? The same old,” says one of the participants from Sabah during her speech.
Khalid Samad: Harapan has majority
8.05pm: PKR headquarters - Amanah strategic communications chief Khalid Samad says that Pakatan Harapan has the majority to form a government.
"It was a very happy meeting.
"A lot of things were discussed. Good things," Khalid tells reporters when met after the coalition's presidential council meeting, which was held earlier this evening.
He says Umno and PAS' demand for snap polls was not discussed in the meeting.
"No, we didn't discuss. Why should we waste money on fresh polls when we can get a clear (majority)."
While ruling out a two-thirds majority as a "thing of the past", Khalid (photo) is confident Harapan has "sufficient" numbers to get a simple majority.
When asked whether they discussed Bersatu's position in a Harapan government, Khalid says: "You'll have to ask them on their position."
Harapan has a consensus for an interview with King
8.00pm: PKR headquarters - Amanah deputy president Salahuddin Ayub says Harapan has a consensus on what to say when they meet the Agong tomorrow.
"We made a decision, we will announce it tomorrow.
"We discussed on three parties still in Harapan and on tomorrow. We have arrived at a consensus," he says.
However, Salahuddin declines to reveal who Harapan would back as prime minister.
Harapan presidential council meeting ends
7.50pm: PKR headquarters - PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, former deputy prime minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and several other Pakatan Harapan leaders leave the party headquarters after concluding the coalition's presidential council meeting.
Other leaders include DAP's Lim Guan Eng, Lim Kit Siang, and Anthony Loke, as well as PKR vice-president Xavier Jeyakumar.
They refuse to say anything to the media.
GPS lawmakers tell Agong they back Mahathir
7.10pm: All 18 GPS lawmakers have affirmed their support for Mahathir as prime minister to the King, says coalition whip Fadhilah Yusof.
This declaration of support comes just moments after Umno and PAS retracted their support for Mahathir.
Umno and PAS withdraw support for Dr M
6.45pm: PWTC - BN and PAS retract their support for Dr Mahathir Mohamad, saying the latter wants to form a unity government based on individuals and not along party lines.
Umno secretary-general Annuar Musa says Mahathir's plan also goes against the conditional support that they will not cooperate with DAP.
"As such, the support we gave to Mahathir was to form a coalition without DAP. We are now forced to take it back," he tells a press conference at PWTC.
In such circumstances, he says, BN and PAS MPs have informed the Yang di-Pertuan Agong that they want Parliament to be dissolved and for a fresh election to be held.
'Agong asked for PM candidate, if Parliament should be dissolved'
6.10pm: Istana Negara - Umno's Kuala Krau MP Ismail Mohamed Said (below) reveals that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had asked MPs he interviewed two questions.
Ismail, after being interviewed by the ruler, says the MPs are asked for their candidate as prime minister.
He says the ruler also asked if they preferred for a new government to be formed or for Parliament to be dissolved.
"So we had two choices, whether to name a prime minister candidate or to dissolve Parliament," he adds.
However, he declines to reveal his preference or choice, citing confidentiality.
Azmin's faction says actions based on people's aspirations
6.05pm: Azmin Ali reiterates his faction's undivided support for Dr Mahathir Mohamad to serve as premier until the end of the term.
Taking to Twitter this evening after meeting Mahathir in Putrajaya earlier, the Gombak MP says his faction's actions are based on the aspirations of the people for a stable government, greater unity as well as efforts to rehabilitate and spur economic growth.
“We are confident this is the real mandate given by the people in the 14th general election. Our group comprises those of various races, religions and geographical locations who prioritise interracial, inter-religious and inter-cultural understanding,” he said.
Azmin says he and 10 other former PKR MPs are now waiting for their turn to have an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah to be interviewed.
“The step we have taken shows positive and encouraging developments. We are dealing with related issues in stages,” he adds.
Azmin's ally blames 'two-time prisoner' Anwar for Harapan's collapse
6pm: Gombak MP Azmin Ali's ally Khalid Jaafar (photo) blames PKR president Anwar Ibrahim for the overnight collapse of the Pakatan Harapan government.
Echoing Azmin's explanation, he says this is because Anwar wanted to stage a “coup de grace” against Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
“If this had succeeded, Mahathir would have become a 'lame duck' prime minister.
“Azmin has repeatedly said that a mid-term transition of power will give the wrong signal to the people, especially investors,” he adds.
In the Facebook posting, Khalid also accuses Anwar of “playing two-faced politics.”
“He makes statements in public of supporting and giving space to Mahathir... But behind the scene, the two-time former prisoner orders his lackeys to drum up the transition issue,” he adds.
Umno MPs leave palace
6pm: Istana Negara -The entourage of Umno MPs leaves the palace to attend a media conference at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC).
Mahathir leaves PMO
5.55pm: Prime Minister's Department - Dr Mahathir Mohamad leaves his office.
He waves to the media as he passes by.
Earlier, the Prime Minister's Office set up canopies outside Perdana Putra to give media practitioners shade from the elements.
"This is a matter of welfare," says PMO deputy chief senior secretary Mohd Sallehuddin Hassan.
5.50pm: Sri Aman MP Masir Kujat expresses his support for the Dr Mahathir Mohamad leadership.
"Our side will put just one name, to support Tun M or dissolve the parliament and let the rakyat choose again," he says at Gate 2 of Istana Negara.
Ayer Hitam MP Wee Ka Siong who leaves after Masir keeps mum on the details of the interview with Yang Di-Pertuan Agong.
S'wak CM office says didn't finalise agreement with peninsular parties
5.35pm: The Sarawak Chief Minister's Office says Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg had not finalised any agreements with the peninsular parties.
It says this in response to claim that GPS, the Sarawak ruling coalition which Abang Johari leads, had struck a deal with PAS and Umno on forming the federal government.
"This is only speculation by PSB. The chief minister did not finalise any agreement with any quarters in the peninsula," it says in a statement, according to the Malay Mail.
PSB, a Sarawak-based opposition party, had accused of striking a deal with BN less than two years after withdrawing from the federal coalition.
Guan Eng: Meeting tonight to discuss tomorrow's interview with King
5.30pm: PKR headquarters - DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng arrives along with his wife Betty Chew and father Lim Kit Siang.
Guan Eng says the meeting will discuss the plan for tomorrow regarding the interview with Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
However, when asked what was discussed during his meeting with interim Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, he says: “We discussed.”
Harapan leaders arrive at PKR HQ
5.10pm: PKR headquarters - Amanah leaders Khalid Samad, Salahuddin Ayub, Husam Musa, Mujahid Yusof Rawa, Hatta Ramli and DAP leader M Kulasegaran arrive at PKR headquarters.
It is learnt that the Pakatan Harapan presidential council meeting will be held here later today.
Asked on what will be the agenda of the meeting, Mujahid and Hatta both say they don't know yet.
Mahathir met various political party leaders, says PMO
5pm: Prime Minister's Department, Putrajaya - The Prime Minister's Office says Dr Mahathir Mohamad met with various political party leaders today.
Among them are GPS chairperson Abang Johari Openg, Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin, PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu and Gombak MP Azmin Ali.
It says Mahathir will meet with Warisan president Shafie Apdal tomorrow.
C4 opposes inclusion of Umno into gov't at all cost
5pm: The Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) opposes and rejects any attempt to form a backdoor government.
The watchdog also “strongly opposes and rejects the inclusion of Umno into the government at all cost.”
“Although there are no laws being breached in forming such (a government), it must be remembered that the people voted in the Pakatan Harapan government on the basis of rejecting the previous corrupted regime.
“Therefore, any attempt by the previous regime and current opposition to form a government with corrupted crooks and by bypassing the voters is an act of treachery which must be opposed strongly and fiercely,” it adds.
C4 also urges Harapan MPs to place the interest of the people and nation above everything else.
“We plead for the wisdom of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to not allow the ambitions of traitorous politicians in destroying this country.
“We plead for the Agong to protect democracy and let the voters choose their new government in the event Harapan is unable to reconfigure a new executive government,” he adds.
I signed a form, says Petrajaya MP
4.45pm: Istana Negara - Petrajaya MP Fadillah Yusof says he "signed a form" during an interview session with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah today.
"We have undergone a process under the constitution," he tells the media outside Gate 2 of Istana Negara.
"There was only a form for us to sign," Fadillah adds when asked to shed details of the interview.
Meanwhile, Santubong MP Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar declines to comment about the interview, saying that he and the King was only talking.
Several minutes after the duo leaves the palace, Sembrong MP Hishammuddin Hussein, Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin, Arau MP Shahidan Kassim, and Tapah MP M Saravanan follow in separate cars without addressing the media.
PAS lawmakers leave palace
4.17pm: Istana Negara - About 30 minutes after PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang left, a bus ferrying numerous PAS MPs leaves the palace.
Earlier, around 4pm, Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah was seen exiting Gate 2.
Ninety MPs are in the palace to seek an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah today.
The rest will meet him in another session tomorrow.
Economic stimulus package will likely proceed - Guan Eng
3.55pm: Former finance minister Lim Guan Eng says interim Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has indicated that an economic stimulus package which was in the works before Sunday's coup, will likely proceed.
"Mahathir indicated that the economic stimulus package will go ahead on a date to be announced by him," Lim says in a brief statement.
Lim had met Mahathir earlier this morning to discuss the stimulus package and other matters.
Sarawak CM drops by PMO, GPS declares support for Dr M
3.50pm: Prime Minister's Department, Putrajaya - Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg (photo) is the latest leader to drop by Perdana Putra today.
Soon after his arrival, a statement from GPS secretary-general Alexander Nanta Linggi declares the coalition's full support for Mahathir to continue serving as prime minister.
Abang Johari's car is followed by three other vehicles.
His coalition GPS is deemed to be a kingmaker in the ongoing efforts to form a new government.
Hadi leaves Istana Negara
3.50pm: Istana Negara - PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang leaves the palace.
Looking cheerful, Hadi refuses to address the media members and just waves his hand before leaving the area on his car.
Penang CM briefs governor on current political situation
3.45pm: George Town - Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow briefs Governor Abdul Rahman Abbas on the current political situation for about 20 minutes at his official residence.
According to Chow, there is a possibility of two Bersatu assemblypersons leaving Pakatan Harapan in Penang.
"If they vacate their seats, they will be subjected to the 2012 Anti-Hopping Law, which calls for by-elections," Chow says, adding that he had consulted the state legal advisor over this matter.
"For PKR, so far no reports about any members leaving Harapan, so Penang situation is stable. Governor is also confident about the situation in Penang," he adds.
Bersatu contested the seats in Bertam (Khalid Mehtab) and Teluk Bahang (Zulkifli Lazim) under PKR ticket in the 2018 general election.
"However, there is no hurry to vacate the seats since the situation at the federal level remains unclear," Chow says.
He is scheduled to meet the Agong tomorrow.
Zahid, Najib arrive to meet Agong
3.30pm: Istana Negara - An entourage comprises of two busses and numerous cars ferrying Umno MPs including Bagan Datuk MP Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Pekan MP Najib Abdul Razak, Ketereh MP Annuar Musa and Putrajaya MP Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor arrive at the palace.
It is learnt that the entourage comes from PWTC.
Some PAS and MCA MPs are also believed to be in the entourage.
Ku Li returns to palace to join other MPs
3.15pm: Istana Negara - Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah who came to the palace this morning and left, returns to join other MPs.
A moment later, Batang Sadong MP Nancy Shukry, Petra jaya Fadillah Yusof, and Santubong MP Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar came in a group of separate cars.
Yes, I'm meeting Tuanku - Hishammuddin
3.11pm: Istana Negara - Sembrong MP Hishammuddin Hussein arrives at Istana Negara.
Upon requests by media members to get a comment from him, Hishammuddin winds down the window and briefly says "Yes, I'm meeting Tuanku," before he proceeds with the journey.
PKR rep urges GPS, Warisan to support Anwar
3.10pm: Semambu assemblyperson Lee Chean Chung wants GPS and Warisan to throw their support behind PKR president Anwar Ibrahim.
In a statement, he claims this is as PKR’s political ideology is closely aligned to the sentiment of the people of Sabah and Sarawak and that the party is present there.
“PKR ideology fights for justice for all rakyat, pluralism and openness that is suitable for Sabah and Sarawak. For the past decade, PKR… has pressed for the legitimacy and importance of Sabah, Sarawak has resulted in many discussions on autonomy in the region of Sabah and Sarawak.
“[...] This, in the current heated political restructuring, visionary Sabah, Sarawak leaders should pick Anwar or PKR as their political ally so that sincere and practical cooperation can be carried out,” Lee says.
Kadir Jasin: Dr M appealed Bersatu not to force him into reneging promise to Anwar
2.50pm: Bersatu supreme council member A Kadir Jasin in a blog posting paints a version of events that tallies with what PKR and DAP have been saying about Mahathir.
Kadir (photo) says that during Sunday's supreme council meeting, Mahathir had appealed to the party "not to force him to abandon his principle and renege on his promise" to hand over power to Anwar Ibrahim after the Asia Pacific Economic Conference (Apec) summit in November.
He says that Mahathir also resigned as Bersatu chairperson because the supreme council “listened more to his political secretary than him”.
Anwar and DAP have said that Mahathir was not a party to Sunday's coup attempt.
20 lawmakers arrive at Istana Negara
2.50pm: Istana Negara - A bus ferrying about 20 MPs have arrived at Istana Negara to seek an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.
Earlier, three cars ferrying MPs were also seen entering the palace.
It is learnt that more MPs will arrive anytime now.
Around 60 media members are on standby outside the Gate 2 of the palace where 90 MPs are expected to have an audience with the King today.
BN, PAS MPs head to Istana, King to meet Harapan tomorrow
2.30pm: PWTC - BN and PAS lawmakers have boarded a bus and are heading to Istana Negara.
Among them are PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan and Baling MP Azeez Abdul Rahim.
According to sources, the Agong will first interview BN lawmakers today, and Harapan MPs tomorrow.
Bar: Parliament should determine who commands majority
2.25pm: The Malaysian Bar opines that it is Parliament that should determine who commands the confidence of the majority in the august House.
“If indeed Pakatan Harapan has lost its majority, then efforts need to be made to ascertain who is now able to command the confidence of the majority in the Dewan Rakyat, to be appointed the prime minister.
“In this regard, we echo the advice of the Attorney-General Tommy Thomas - the government’s chief legal adviser - that the way forward is to have this matter determined by the Dewan Rakyat when it reconvenes on March 10.
“At that point, a vote of confidence or otherwise could be taken and debated against the interim prime minister,” Bar president Abdul Fareed Abdul Gafoor says in a statement.
He adds that this is as statutory declarations (SDs) cannot be used to determine the support of MPs since the authenticity of such SDs can be disputed.
Wan Saiful promotes 'gov't without opposition' if Dr M gets full support
2.10pm: Bersatu supreme council member Wan Saiful Wan Jan (photo) promotes an idealistic scenario, for MPs to form a unity government headed by Mahathir.
"If Mahathir gets 100 percent support from the Dewan Rakyat, he can appoint anyone from any party to be in the cabinet.
"In other words, the entire Dewan Rakyat supports him, then a unity government will be formed without there being an opposition. If this can happen, I think the government will be more stable," he says in a statement.
This idealistic scenario, however, has major obstacles.
Umno has voiced objection to being in a coalition with DAP, and PAS is likely to strongly object as well. Likewise, Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister James Masing also says that GPS doesn't want to work with DAP.
Amanah, PKR and DAP, meanwhile, will not want to work with Umno, PAS, Bersatu or the defectors from Azmin Ali's camp.
Umno MPs on standby to be interviewed by Agong
2.10pm: PWTC - Umno MPs are standing by to be called up to be interviewed by the King.
Ketereh MP Annuar Musa and Bera MP Ismail Sabri Yaacob have been at the Umno headquarters since 10.45am.
Others present are Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah and Kuala Krau MP Ismail Mohamed Said.
Azmin's faction confident on 'positive developments', waiting to meet King
1.58pm: Azmin Ali's faction today reiterated their support for Dr Mahathir Mohamad to serve out a full term as prime minister.
The 11 MPs in a joint statement says they are waiting for their turn to meet the King, and are confident that there will be positive developments towards their efforts.
Azmin is seen leaving the Prime Minister's Department at around this time. He lowers his window to wave at the press but doesn't answer any questions.
Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin was spotted leaving the premises earlier at around 1.30pm.
Kit Siang: Harapan gov't not perfect but worth saving
1.40pm: DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang (below) believes the Pakatan Harapan government is worth saving although acknowledging that it is not perfect.
According to him, no other political grouping in Malaysia is committed to restoring Tunku Abdul Rahman’s vision of a Malaysia as “a beacon of light in a difficult and distracted world.”
“I do not agree with all the things done in the name of the Pakatan Harapan government in the past 20 months, but as I said to DAP leaders yesterday, so long as DAP leaders remain true, loyal and steadfast to their principles and objectives to make Malaysia a great nation, and do not go against their conscience, they must be prepared to be unpopular and even misunderstood.
“But I believe that the Harapan coalition is worth saving, and all efforts should be made by Malaysians to defeat the attempts by irresponsible political opportunists to topple the Harapan government.
“Because the alternative to the Malaysian Dream that we are trying to achieve of the country becoming a Tiger Economy and a world top-class nation is a Malaysian Nightmare of the reversion to a global kleptocracy, a failed and rogue state, and even worse, the advent of a kakistocracy where the worst, the most unscrupulous and the most unprincipled elements of society occupy the high offices of state in the nation.
“The Harapan government is not perfect, but we are set in this direction of a New Malaysia, and no other political group has made a similar commitment to continue in this direction in Malaysian nation-building,” he adds.
Chief secretary ensures civil service will continue to function
1.30pm: Chief secretary to the government Mohd Zuki Ali says he is ensuring the smooth functioning of the civil service in the absence of a government.
"Meeting with chief secretaries of the ministries to ensure services continue as usual for continuity and implementation of existing policies for the people and country," he says in a Twitter post.
Mohd Zuki will later have to act as a witness for interviews to be conducted by the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong on all MPs to determine who they support.
Mesyuarat Khas bersama Ketua-Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian bagi meneruskan khidmat seperti biasa untuk kelangsungan perancangan dan pelaksanaan dasar-dasar sedia ada untuk rakyat dan negara.#KetuaSetiausahaNegara#KepercayaanUntukBerkhidmat#TrustToServe#Bekerjasepertibiasa
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King urges rakyat to be patient
1.15pm: Istana Negara - Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah tells the people to be patient in regard to the latest situation.
"We are very concerned... just be patient. First of all, let me do the duties.
"I hope we will find the best solution for the country," he says.
Earlier, he handed over lunch meals from McDonald's to the media on duty here.
Perak state gov't functioning as usual: Ahmad Faizal
1.10pm: Perak Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu says the state government is still functioning as usual, despite what's going on in Putrajaya.
"I am still carrying out my duties and responsibilities as menteri besar as was entrusted to me, and still have the majority support from the Perak state assemblypersons.
"The exco members are also carrying out their duties as usual," Ahmad Faizal (below) says in a statement.
He adds that he has briefed Perak's Sultan Nazrin Shah about the current political situation.
He urges the people to help with efforts to overcome the political crisis affecting the country, so that the government can focus on developing the nation and looking after the people.
Agong to interview all MPs today, tomorrow
12.50am: Istana Negara - Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah will be interviewing all lawmakers today and tomorrow.
The comptroller of the royal family and household, Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin (photo), says the first group of 90 MPs will be meeting the King starting 2.30pm today.
They will each get two to three minutes with the sovereign and the meeting will be witnessed by the chief secretary to the government Mohd Zuki Ali.
The remaining MPs will meet the Agong tomorrow.
"What is being done by the King is in line with constitutional requirements, that he must have the confidence in one individual," Ahmad Fadil says.
Full story here.
Anwar enters Perdana Putra
12.35pm: Prime Minister's Department, Putrajaya - PKR president Anwar Ibrahim is seen entering Perdana Putra.
His vehicle does not slow down for the media.
'PAS has the potential to be in new federal gov't'
12.30pm: Kota Bharu - PAS vice-president Mohd Amar Abdullah says his party has "potential" to be part of the new federal government following the dissolution of Pakatan Harapan government and jostling among the parties to form the new government.
"We don't know yet but in the current situation, we have the potential.
"There is a possibility we will be in the next federal government," he says after chairing the Kelantan exco meeting.
S'gor gov't intact, but what about Bersatu and PKR renegades?
12.15pm: Istana Bukit Kayangan, Shah Alam - After an audience with the Selangor ruler, Menteri Besar and Selangor PKR head Amirudin Shari says all is well with the Pakatan Harapan administration in his state.
He reveals that he has met his Bersatu counterpart Abdul Rashid Asari prior to the meeting at the palace. Selangor Bersatu's stand on whether they are in or out of government is still unclear.
Even without Bersatu, the coalition of PKR, DAP and Amanah will still have a comfortable majority in the Selangor legislative assembly.
Full store here.
Briefing for media members at palace
12.15pm: Istana Negara - Media members are in the management office at Istana Negara for a special briefing by the comptroller of the royal family and household, Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin, on the flow of today's event which is scheduled to start at 2.30pm today.
Rais Yatim hopes MPs won't 'turn around' on support for Dr M
12.10pm: Bersatu supreme council member Rais Yatim hopes that MPs meeting the King will not "turn around" on their support for Mahathir.
"Now there is no more Harapan government. Tun (Mahathir) is only an interim prime minister before a prime minister with a cabinet is appointed by the Agong.
"When Mahathir gets majority support, he can form a new government, but not a Haparan government. I hope the MPs who meet the Agong today won't turn around (pusing belakang)," he tweets.
The King is expected to gauge the support of lawmakers today, to see if a government can be formed.
T'ganu MB, Bersatu sec-gen enter Perdana Putra
12pm: Prime Minister's Department, Putrajaya - Terengganu menteri besar Samsuri Mokhtar is seen entering Perdana Putra at 11.55am.
Bersatu secretary-general Marzuki Yahya is also seen making his way into the complex.
Wan Azizah clears out office
11.54am: Prime Minister's Department, Putrajaya - So far this morning, most of the personalities that have gone in and out, ostensibly to meet with interim Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, are from the group that had tried to form a new coalition to oust the Pakatan Harapan government, including Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, former Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein and former PKR deputy president Azmin Ali.
PKR adviser Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and her daughter Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar turning up here had led to questions if they too were involved in whatever negotiations going on inside. However, this does not appear to be the case.
Nurul Izzah, speaking to Malaysiakini, says she and her mother was not there to meet Mahathir. Instead, Nurul Izzah says she was helping her mother to clear out from the Deputy Prime Minister's Office.
"We were with our mother to gather her things from the DPM office and then we moved to the Women's Ministry (to pack our things)," she says.
Nurul Izzah adds that her mother also took the opportunity to thank the staff who had served under her as deputy prime minister.
Umno won't join any gov't with DAP in it
11.45am: Umno information chief Shamsul Anuar Nasarah says his party will not join any new coalition government that has DAP in it.
"DAP is a very racist party that cannot be trusted," he says.
Shamsul (photo) also slams DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng for blaming Umno's involvement in forming a new coalition for the Pakatan Harapan government's demise.
"The destruction of the Harapan government is due to Harapan's own leadership, particularly the DAP," he says.
Selamat bertugas, says Maszlee to reporters
11.45am: Istana Negara - Simpang Renggam MP Maszlee Malik alights his car to hand over drinks to media members who are on duty outside of Istana Negara, before entering the palace.
The former education minister refuses to answer any questions pertaining to the current turmoil political situation, only saying "selamat bertugas."
Azmin enters PMO as Hisham leaves
11.39am: Prime Minister's Department, Putrajaya - A vehicle ferrying former Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein is seen leaving the Prime Minister's Office.
Meanwhile, a vehicle carrying former PKR deputy president Azmin Ali enters the complex.
Johor Umno 'confident' can form new gov't with PKR defection
11.20am: Johor Umno is confident that they can form a new state government together with Bersatu, thanks to a defection from PKR.
"We should be getting one from PKR... this was promised to us by their boss from KL. Maybe there will be more than one," Johor Umno chief Hasni Mohammad tells Malaysiakini.
At present Johor has a hung state assembly. PKR, DAP and Amanah have 28 seats, as do Bersatu, Umno, MIC, and PAS.
S'gor Harapan leaders leave after 2-hour meeting with sultan
11.10am: Istana Bukit Kayangan, Shah Alam - Selangor Harapan leaders left Istana Bukit Kayangan in Shah Alam at around 10.45am after a two-hour meeting with Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
Speaking to reporters outside the palace, Selangor Amanah chief Izham Hashim says all is well and that the Harapan state government is stable.
"Selangor is all good, there is no problem. The meeting (with the sultan) went smoothly," he says, adding that Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari will be making a statement soon.
Besides Izham and Amirudin, Selangor DAP chief Gobind Singh Deo also attended the meeting.
Zahid, Wan Azizah and Nurul at PMO
11.00am: Putrajaya - Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is among those at the Prime Minister's Department complex.
Also present are PKR advisor Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar.
Meanwhile, MPs loyal to Azmin Ali are gathering at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
According to Puncak Borneo MP Willie Mongin, they are waiting for instructions to head to the palace to form a new government.
Kepong MP accuses Azmin of trying to 'twist by telling tales'
11am: Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng accuses former Pakatan Harapan lawmaker Azmin Ali of spinning a yarn in trying to justify alleged attempts to form a new government as supporting Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
“Azmin tried to twist (the narrative) by telling tales and trying to be the hero, while Azmin is the wolf in sheep’s clothing (musang berbulu ayam)... willing to bond with (alleged) corrupt from Umno.
“It is surprising he can claim there are plans to topple Mahathir when Harapan leaders have unanimously handed the decision on power transition (on the premiership) to the (then) prime minister himself,” the DAP lawmaker says in a statement.
He calls on the other 10 PKR MPs who quit the party in the footsteps of Azmin, the former party deputy president, to explain their decisions.
Sri Gading MP enters palace
11am: Istana Negara - Sri Gading MP Shahruddin Md Salleh, who is also the former deputy federal territories minister, enters the palace in a Perodua Bezza car.
CJ and AG arrive at Istana Negara
10.47am: Istana Negara - Attorney-General Tommy Thomas arrives at Istana Negara. His car enters the palace via Gate 2.
It is also learnt that the Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat (photo) arrived earlier around 10.30am.
Both of them are seeking an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.
The arrival of Tengku Maimun is informed by a police officer stationed outside the palace's Gate 2.
Ku Li arrives at Istana Negara
10.45am: Istana Negara - Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah arrives at Istana Negara
Former DPM Wan Azizah arrives at PMO
10.30am: Putrajaya - Former deputy prime minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail arrives at Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya.
Business as usual in Penang, Kedah
10.25am: After Bersatu quits Pakatan Harapan, Kedah government has technically fallen.
The 36-member Kedah state legislative assembly has PKR (7), Bersatu (6), Amanah (4), DAP (2), PAS (15) and BN (2).
However, Kedah government leaders say that it's "business as usual" for them.
State Kedah executive councillor Simon Ooi says Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir (photo) was supposed to hold an exco meeting today.
"However, that has been postponed to tomorrow, until further notice. We will wait to meet him to see if there is any further developments. For now, we work as usual," he tells Malaysiakini.
Meanwhile, in Penang, Deputy Chief Minister II P Ramasamy says Penang there are no changes in the state administration for now as it is solidly backed by DAP.
"It's business as usual," says Ramasamy.
The 40-member Penang Legislative Assembly is dominated by DAP (19) seats, with PKR (14), Bersatu (2), Amanah (2), BN (2) and PAS (1).
Yeo Bee Yin recalls fall of BN regime
10.15am: Yeo Bee Yin posts a photograph from May 10, 2018, following the fall of BN regime in GE14.
Reminiscing on that moment, in the early hours of the morning when the newly elected Pakatan Harapan lawmakers stood facing a sea of pressmen and women, the Bakri MP expresses gratitude that attempts last weekend by some to allegedly form a backdoor government did not materialise.
“I took this picture from the stage at PJ Sheraton Hotel in the early morning (probably around 3am) of May 10, 2018, when the Pakatan Harapan newly elected members of parliament stood together to declare that corrupt regime of Umno/BN was finally over and that for the first time in the history of Malaysia, the federal government was changed.
“Malaysia shone as a symbol of democracy to the world... Malaysia changed from a kleptocratic country to the beacon of hope in the region overnight.
“[...]I don't want this place, once marked by a historical democratic win of millions of fellow Malaysians who hungered for change, to be tainted by the few selfish and power-crazed politicians. But it is not over yet,” the former energy, science, technology, environment and climate change minister says.
She says efforts are not to protect the Harapan government but rather the “legitimate government elected through the ballot boxes”.
“We are protecting democracy. Let us show to the next generation that election and voting are something worth doing.”
You can read the full post on Facebook here.
LFL calls for 'proper and democratic' fresh election
10.05am: Rights group Lawyers for Liberty says a “proper and democratic” fresh general election must be called as all parties are not able to work together and if there is no one person to command the confidence of the majority of the Dewan Rakyat.
“The Pakatan Harapan coalition was always going to face challenges, but progress was being made towards genuine reform. Under this administration, Malaysia has become a more accountable, transparent and rights-respecting democracy.
“Unfortunately, the coalition has also been tainted by the relentless tussle for power since GE14. Instead of building on the trust and goodwill of the people, this has jeopardised the momentous opportunity for change and disregarded the people’s mandate.
“We urge the elected representatives to firmly focus and continue with the reform process and not allow Malaysia to revert to the old corrupt and divisive politics that we voted to leave behind,” LFL director Melissa Sasidaran says in a statement.
Stimulus package will not be announced on Feb 27
10am: Former deputy international trade and industry minister Ong Kian Ming (photo) says the stimulus package will not be announced on Feb 27 as originally planned.
"I think you can clearly say that it (stimulus package) is no longer on the card as there is no government right now," he tells business radio BFM earlier today.
Ong says no new policy can be announced without the formation of a new government.
He says the priority right now is to form a new government.
Pakatan Harapan government announced the stimulus package to help industries hit hard by Covid-19.
Dr M arrives at PMO
9.40am: Putrajaya -Dr Mahathir Mohammad reaches the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya.
This officially marks his first day entering office as the interim prime minister following his appointment by the Agong yesterday.
Yesterday, Attorney-General Tommy Thomas explained there is no time limit attached to the office of the interim prime minister.
Mahathir may now decide whether to appoint cabinet members at his discretion. This is until a new premier is appointed.
Najib’s trial postponed as he needs to attend PWTC meeting
9.24am: KL High Court - Former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak will be heading to PWTC for a crucial political meeting around 10.30am.
After that, he also needs to attend a meeting at Istana Negara.
This is relayed by his lead defence counsel Muhammad Shafee Abdullah to the Kuala Lumpur High Court this morning.
These were among the reasons Shafee cited for the postponement of Najib's RM42 million SRC International trial to tomorrow afternoon.
It is believed that the PWTC meeting is related to the current national political upheaval.
Malacca Harapan confirms it no longer controls the State Assembly
8.30am: In what appears to be a move to bid farewell, Malacca Chief Minister Adly Zahari (below) expresses gratitude to those who gave him the opportunity to lead.
"Although the time is short, I have tried my best with all the energy I have to relieve (the people) from the hunger, evil and sadness," he says in a social media posting.
Speaking with Malaysiakini, Malacca state executive councillor Tey Kok Kiew confirms the Pakatan Harapan-led state government no longer commands the majority in the State Legislative Assembly.
"(Bersatu) had quit from Harapan and we do not have the numbers now," says Tey, who is the Malacca DAP chief.
Leaders begin to arrive at Mahathir’s residence
8.50am: PM's residence, Seri Kembangan - Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin is the first to arrive at the home of interim Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
His car is seen driving in at 8.05am.
Next up is Mukhriz Mahathir at 8.10am and Rina Harun at 8.20am.
Ex-cabinet members bid farewell to ministries
8.20am: Several former members of the Pakatan Harapan cabinet are posting emotional farewells online as they leave their ministries following the collapse of the government.
Former international trade and industry (Miti) minister Darell Leiking (above) thanks his ex-deputy Ong Kian Ming and other ministry staff and says there is more left to be done.
Meanwhile, former women, family and community development deputy minister Hannah Yeoh posts: “The burden I carry, especially for children, I can lay it down tonight as it is no longer mine to carry. This season comes to an end. For now.”
She, however, says the ministry is in “good hands”, especially as it has just completed its retreat with staff in which the direction, roadmap and area of focus were decided.
“You have the vision, now run with it.”
This as yesterday, Dzulkefly Ahmad posts his last sharing as health minister by informing on the recovery of two more Covid-19 patients.
Cabinet dissolution won't affect tackling of Covid-19
8am: Health Ministry secretary-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah says the dissolution of the cabinet will not affect the government's effort in handling Covid-19.
"All health issues and challenges will be continued as usual," he tells Malaysiakini in a text message.
This is because, Noor Hisham says, the Health Ministry is a technical ministry where all experts are available.
Some have raised concern that the dissolution of the cabinet yesterday would impact the government's effort in tackling the coronavirus.
As of yesterday, a total of 20 patients out of 22 recovered from the coronavirus.
The epidemic has infected close to 80,000 people around the world and killed more than 2,600 as of yesterday.
Bersatu sec-gen denies reports of party leaders quitting
8am: Bersatu secretary-general Marzuki Yahya (below) denies reports that any of the party leaders would be quitting.
"I wish to make clear that we are making stern denial that any of our MPs or Bersatu leaders who have been rumoured to be exiting Bersatu (are leaving).
"We are still intact," he tells reporters after the party's supreme council meeting in Petaling Jaya shortly after midnight.
There were talks that a number of Bersatu leaders would join Dr Mahathir Mohamad in quitting their posts in the party. They include Bersatu Youth chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and former education minister Maszlee Malik.
Both Syed Saddiq and Maszlee attended the party’s supreme council meeting last night, which decided to reject Mahathir’s resignation as Bersatu chairperson.
Meanwhile, Marzuki also said the party's decision to leave Pakatan Harapan yesterday was a unanimous decision made by the Bersatu supreme council.
According to him, Bersatu leaders have yet to discuss possible cooperation with Umno and PAS but are thankful that the two opposition parties have expressed their support for Mahathir.
Saari Sungip supports Azmin's sacking
7.50am: Hulu Kelang assemblyperson Saari Sungip expresses support for the PKR leadership’s termination of Gombak MP Azmin Ali’s membership.
Saari, whose seat falls within the Gombak parliamentary constituency, says he disagrees with the former PKR deputy president’s actions in allegedly triggering the current political turmoil at a time when the country is battling to contain the spread of Covid-19, facing economic uncertainty and fighting corruption.
“I disagree with Azmin’s actions affecting the Pakatan Harapan government’s administration through a political alliance that will enable Umno and PAS, that have been rejected by the people, to return to power.
“I hold to the people’s mandate in GE14 which elected Harapan as the legitimate government,” he says on Facebook.
Saari adds that he will continue to ensure the welfare of the people of Hulu Kelang and Gombak.
Rais Hussin: Appoint Dzulkefly Ahmad as interim health minister
7.50am: Bersatu's chief strategist Rais Hussin (photo) suggests interim Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad appoint Dzulkefly Ahmad as interim health minister.
Taking to social media, he says this is needed to control the spread of Covid-19 in Malaysia.
"The coronavirus crisis is escalating elsewhere. This appointment is in the best interest of all Malaysians, not for few," said the Emir Research president.
Mahathir's resignation as prime minister yesterday immediately triggered the disbanding of the cabinet.
Day 3 of political upheaval
7.40am: An unprecedented political upheaval which led to the collapse of the 20-month-old Pakatan Harapan government enters Day 3 today.
Dr Mahathir Mohamad is being supported by both sides fighting for control of the federal government, but despite this, no one side has yet to emerge with a clear parliamentary majority.
Mahathir is currently the sole member of government after being appointed interim prime minister by the king yesterday following his shock resignation.
All ministerial posts have been vacated, pending the formation of a new government. - Mkini
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