Rulers want 1MDB issue resolved

- Reuters

KUALA LUMPUR: Malay Rulers want the Government to complete the investigation related to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) as soon as possible and take "the appropriate stern action" against all found to be implicated.

In a statement, their royal highnesses stressed that all concerned should extend "real and sincere" cooperation so the investigation achieves its objectives.

"The findings of the investigation must be reported comprehensively and in a transparent manner so that the people will be convinced of the sincerity of the Government which shall not at all conceal facts and the truth," they said.

The statement was released by the Keeper of the Rulers' Seal, Datuk Seri Syed Danial Syed Ahmad, after the pre-council meeting of the Conference of Rulers at Istana Negara Tuesday. The 239th meeting of the Conference of Rulers is scheduled for two days from Wednesday.

"The failure to give convincing clarification and answers is feared to have resulted in a crisis of confidence.

"As a consequence, the people believe, whether basing on reality or perception, that this is among the causes for the plunge in the value of the Malaysian Ringgit, impacting the country's financial market and economic climate negatively and at the same time adversely affecting the world's view of Malaysia," it said.

According to the statement, the Malay Rulers were worried that if the issue was not wisely handled and was allowed to drag on, it could jeopardise the country's economy and the livelihood of the people.

Their royal highnesses feared that this could also threaten public order and national security.

"Hence, the Malay Rulers remind all leaders to always adhere to the Rukun Negara principles of upholding the Constitution and the Rule of Law.

"To ensure that the Government enjoys the people's trust, that leaders are respected, that political stability is guaranteed and that the economy continues to grow, all leaders must constantly ensure that justice is meted out equitably and transparently based on the law," they said. - Bernama