News analysis

Malaysia’s King enters political minefield again to decide on PM

This is not the first time that Sultan Abdullah has been forced to intervene, in a marked departure from the ceremonial role of the Malay rulers. PHOTO: REUTERS
Perikatan Nasional chairman Muhyiddin Yassin (centre, in white shirt) said it has always been the coalition’s stand of not cooperating with Pakatan Harapan. PHOTO: BERNAMA
Malaysia's opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim speaking to the media outside the National Palace in KL on Nov 22, 2022. PHOTO: REUTERS
Malaysia's King Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah meeting the media on Nov 22, 2022. Sultan Abdullah will have to decide who will be the country's new PM. PHOTO: BERNAMA
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KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia’s King has been forced to enter into the country’s political minefield yet again on Tuesday, following a deadlock over which coalition leader has the parliamentary majority needed to form the federal government.

Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah granted audiences to both opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim and former premier Muhyiddin Yassin – the leaders of the two coalitions with the highest number of MPs after the polls.

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