TMJ: Next Agong wants to ‘restore order’, interesting times ahead

 

Following the collapse of the Pakatan Harapan government in 2020, the Malay rulers, who had a more passive role until then, were thrust into the forefront of local politics.

Since the 2018 general election, the rulers have found themselves untangling the knots of two political coups amid the Covid-19 pandemic and a deadlock after last year’s national polls.

Pahang ruler, Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah, whose five-year reign as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong was punctuated with these political upheavals and swearing-in three prime ministers, will be stepping down from the throne in January.

He will be replaced by Johor ruler, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, and his son Tunku Ismail, made it clear that his father has a “clear agenda”.

Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar

“He always says something about restoring order because of the unstable (political) situation in the country,” the crown prince said during the “Keluar Sekejap” podcast which aired last night.

Tunku Ismail (above) also believes that his father’s impending reign would be an “interesting time”.

“His Majesty has his own plan…He wants to work together with the prime minister and share his views with the latter. So, we will see,” he said.

Tunku Ismail himself set the tone when he commented on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s performance, pointing out that as a citizen, he had the right to comment on political matters.

Both Sultan Ibrahim and Tunku Ismail have a track record of speaking their minds on issues both at the state and national level.

Meanwhile, the crown prince also said his father would not compromise when it concerned safeguarding the interests of the people.

He noted how the Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi would seek the consent of the sultan with regard to his decisions, and the ruler would provide his honest feedback.

The appointment of Onn Hafiz as Johor menteri besar in 2022 was a moment of political crisis.

Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi

This is as Johor BN had initially touted Hasni Mohamad as returning to the role should they win the state election that year.

However, despite BN winning a two-thirds majority in the state, Hasni's appointment was torpedoed, reportedly due to interference from a "higher power".

Meanwhile, Tunku Ismail said his father and their family are aware of the responsibilities that come with being the Agong.

"He will be a no-nonsense Agong, understanding but strict.

“It’s very clear. This is a responsibility for the country, not just Johor. But you see whatever decisions are made, or policies that His Majesty has, that will benefit Johor and other states.

“We can help when it becomes a domino effect in terms of the economy and it will indirectly help the people,” he added. - Mkini