The council said a vote on the motion would end speculation on political uncertainty, boost economic growth and restore confidence in the government.

In a statement signed by PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, Amanah president Mohamad Sabu and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, the council commented on the recent downgrade of Malaysia’s sovereign debt rating from “A-” to “BBB+” by a US ratings agency.

It said the downgrade reflected a failure of policy planning and governance, and was an extension of the political uncertainty in the country since the change of government in March.

The current Perikatan Nasional government was formed in March after the collapse of the PH-led government headed by Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Mahathir has submitted a motion of no confidence in Muhyiddin but the Dewan Rakyat Speaker has said government business will take priority in the house. Similar motions have been submitted by more than 20 other MPs.

The ruling coalition government holds a slim majority in the 222-seat Dewan Rakyat. Perikatan Nasional (50 seats) is backed by Barisan Nasional (42), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (18), PBS (one) and one independent.

The opposition Pakatan Harapan commands 91 seats, with 16 other seats held by minor parties and one independent MP. Two seats are vacant.