In a ceramah during the Nenggiri by-election campaign last week, Muhyiddin claimed that “for some reason”, he was not invited by the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, to be sworn in as prime minister after GE15 despite “having the numbers” needed to form the government.
Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh said Muhyiddin’s remarks raised questions about the capability and authority of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the head of state.
He added that the king had exercised his powers in accordance with Articles 40(2) and 43(2) of the Federal Constitution.
“Umno Youth wants to ask leaders from PN – which includes PAS, Bersatu, and Gerakan – whether Muhyiddin’s statement reflects their collective stance,” Akmal said.
“Muhyiddin and PN should issue a public apology to address the doubts that have been created and to restore trust in the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.”
Separately, DAP’s RSN Rayer questioned PAS’s “deafening silence” on the matter and asked whether the Islamic party condoned Muhyiddin’s view.
Numerous police reports have been filed against Muhyiddin, and he is expected to give a statement to the police tomorrow regarding his speech.
Earlier today, the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, expressed his anger over Muhyiddin’s speech and urged the police to take firm action against the former prime minister for intentionally stirring sentiments related to race, religion, and royalty (3R) issues.
Tengku Hassanal said Muhyiddin “deliberately” disparaged the role of the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah, during his tenure as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
He added that despite being a former prime minister and seasoned politician, Muhyiddin distorted facts and promoted a negative narrative by suggesting that Al-Sultan Abdullah was unjust when naming the country’s 10th prime minister following GE15 in November 2022.
“His statement also appears immature, reflecting his inability to accept that he was not made prime minister.
“His statement is extremely dangerous as it openly incites the public to lose trust in the Malay rulers and sows division among the people,” he said in a statement issued by Istana Abdulaziz, Kuantan.