In a statement, the Palace said the King had met with Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin at 5.30pm yesterday.

It said Sultan Abdullah has consented for the emergency to last until Aug 1 or an earlier date if Covid-19 cases are reduced and stabilised.

The Palace said this had been discussed and approved by the other Malay rulers.

“Sultan Abdullah views that the spread of Covid-19 in the country is at a critical level and that there is a need to declare an emergency, based on Article 150(1) of the Federal Constitution.

“This decree also takes into account the safety of the people and the country’s interests. It is also based on the current Covid-19 statistics, specifically the logistical constraints in each state,” it said.

It said Putrajaya will be forming an independent task force consisting of government and opposition MPs as well as health experts who will advise the King if the emergency can be ended earlier.

“Sultan Abdullah advises the people to stay calm and strong in facing the implementation of this emergency and the movement control order (MCO) for our safety,” the Palace added.

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