Student group republishes statement on king’s role, decries ‘media distortion’

 

The student group University of Malaya Association of New Youth (Umany) has republished its controversial statement regarding the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s role in national affairs.

In its Facebook post today, the group explained it had originally published the statement at 8pm on Oct 30 but removed it a few hours later at 2am following legal advice.

“As the above-issued statement was severely distorted and discredited by the media, the association has decided to republish the Facebook page from now onwards,” it said.

The group also condemned UM’s investigation on Umany’s statement and threatened legal action if disciplinary action is taken against the group.

“If the university takes disciplinary actions against Umany for rational academic discussions, the association does not rule out to challenge the decision through the judicial approach and seek compensation from the university.

“The association insists on defending the freedom of speech and rights granted to the people by the constitution,” it said.

Umany’s Oct 30 statement was made in response to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah’s decision to reject the prime minister’s proposal for a proclamation of emergency, and his advice for all MPs to support the upcoming Budget 2021 proposal at the Dewan Rakyat.

The group argued that the king “should not interfere in national affairs; but to always maintain a neutral attitude and play his role within the framework permitted by the constitution”.

It pointed out that under Article 40 of the Federal Constitution, the king must act in accordance with the cabinet’s advice except on three matters: the appointment of the prime minister, in refusing a request to dissolve the Parliament and in convening a meeting between the Malay rulers.

“These points have proved the supremacy of the constitution. Even the king cannot oppress or bypass the constitution to expand His Majesty's political rights.

“Any act beyond the provisions of the Constitution is unconstitutional,” it said.

The group has come under severe criticism over the statement, prompting human rights groups to call for the demonisation and false accusations against the group to stop. They have also urged UM to halt its investigation against the students.

Meanwhile, Umany asserted that it upholds the Federal Constitution as the supreme law of Malaysia and respects the system of constitutional monarchy in Malaysia.

It also condemned “malicious attacks” against the group, which it said are racist and sexist in nature. - Mkini