King consents to Mahathir’s AG choice: Thomas in Apandi out!

KUALA LUMPUR – His Majesty the Malaysian King Sultan Muhammad V has given his consent to the appointment of Tommy Thomas as the new attorney-general, said Bernama today in a statement.

The King acted upon the advice of Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and gave his consent to the appointment according to Article 145 (1) of the Federal Constitution.

The Monarch also called on all Malaysians to accept that should not create religious or racial conflict as every Malaysian should be fairly treated regardless of race and religion.

While this clears the path for a new progressive Malaysia, it forces the AG appointed by Najib Razak out of office.

Apandi refused to resign from his post despite being sent on a garden leave.

“After taking into account the opinions of the Malay Rulers on (i) the appointment of attorney-general, (ii) the rights of Bumiputeras and (iii) the roles of the Council of Rulers as stated under Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong also consented to Apandi Ali’s termination of service as attorney-general by the federal government,” he said.

But Sultan Muhammad V has also expressed his disappointment and worry about inaccurate and negative media reports of late which could threaten peace and harmony in the country.

“His Majesty said that he has an obligation to uphold the Federal Constitution and preserve the special rights of the Malays and Bumiputeras, as well as to protect Islam,” said Comptroller of the Royal Household Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.