A statement from Istana Negara said the King welcomed the support from MPs in ensuring the well-being of the people and the country’s economic recovery.

“He also expresses his appreciation for MPs who heeded his advice to support the budget for the well-being of the people,” said Comptroller of the Royal Household Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin.

Previously, the Agong had called on MPs to support the budget citing its importance in the fight against Covid-19.

The budget, the King said, was important for the government and authorities, particularly frontliners, in their efforts to address the Covid-19 situation in the country.

“As the head of the nation, Sultan Abdullah respects all political parties in the country. He also appreciates the role and responsibilities of MPs in upholding the welfare of the people.”

As such, Fadil said, Sultan Abdullah appreciated the commitment and cooperation of all parties in ensuring the momentum of the nation’s economic recovery and well-being can be continued.

“Sultan Abdullah also expresses his full confidence in the government’s ability to lead the nation’s administration at a time the country is being tested by crises.”

Earlier today, the federal budget was passed at the policy stage in the Dewan Rakyat after the majority of MPs present supported it through a voice vote.

Dewan Rakyat speaker Azhar Azizan Harun announced the outcome of the voice vote on the Supply Bill (Budget) 2021 after Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz tabled it for a second reading.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin thanked all MPs, particularly government backbenchers, for supporting the budget.

“Their support is evidence of the maturity of MPs in making important decisions by putting the welfare, lives and wellbeing of the people ahead of other matters.”

He also said amendments to the budget took into account the views of various parties, including MPs, and his administration was always open to the views and criticisms of others.