Zaid Ibrahim Questions Pm S Summon To Johor Palace Meeting With Tmj

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FORMER de facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has raised concerns over reports of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin being summoned to the Johor Palace for a meeting with Tunku Mahkota Johor (TMJ).
While the purpose remains unclear, possibly security, business, or state matters, Zaid posed direct questions to the PM.
“Are you required to be at Johor Palace whenever the regent requests it, and can you tell us what matters were discussed? Do you attend to all the requests for meetings from the nine other regents in the country, or only Johor?” he said.
“Is it now the practice of our constitutional government that the PM and his ministers are required to attend meetings with the regents at the Istana and not divulge what they discussed?” he wondered.
Finally, he asked whether the PM can say with certainty if his government recognises, in dealing with the Istana, between what is personal and what are affairs of state
As usual, Zaid attracted a lot of comments on his post. Some pointed out that there is a lack of transparency in the Prime Minister’s office dealings in such matters. Others tried to play in the expert role on constitutional monarchy matters, suggesting that the PM must always kowtow to demands from the palace.
Here, a Facebook user, Khalid Ahmad said, “A brief, respectful statement from the PMO would promote transparency and prevent speculation. Remaining silent undermines public trust, and the questions raised are reasonable, reflecting citizens’ commitment to accountability and democratic governance.”
Bernie Fung mentioned the Conference of the Malays Rulers as a main player in Malaysia as the Constitutionals Monarchy overseer.
“Hence when a member of that conference requested the PM and his minister for an audience with his Royal Highness”, there should NOT be any issue,” said Bernie.
The user then suggested that it is good communication and whatever is discussed is often a private matter and is confidential.
Meanwhile, for Nabil Abd, the two leaders being summoned shows that is something of serious nature that could involve national security.
“TMJ has no time for petty national politics. There must be a pressing issue. TMJ is not your typical ruler who closes his eyes to wrong things happening around us. He will speak up when he needs to and I support this,” Nabil added. — Focus Malaysia

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