Discretionary powers of the King


HIS Majesty Sultan Muhammad V, the Sultan of Kelantan, was installed as our 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong on April 24. It is timely, therefore, to examine the constitutional position of our monarch.

Broadly speaking, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is invested with two categories of functions. First, a vast array of non-discretionary functions, exercisable on advice.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Opinion , Shad Faruqi , columnist

Next In Columnists

The tallest trees, the deepest roots
Contenders do whatever it takes to win as EPL title race heats up
Bridging the digital divide through Malaysia-China collaboration
Precious pearls of wisdom on bead insertion
What a foot-stomping year
In 2026, stability must become delivery
Tech war endgame
All the world’s a stage
Our 2026 resolution: Spend wisely
Betrayal and power struggle in Perlis

Others Also Read