Malaysians: Choose new AG on merit, not race or religion

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians have voiced their say on the standoff over the Attorney-General's post, urging that the right candidate be chosen regardless of race or religion.

The Star in its front-page on Sunday (June 3) reported that a proposal by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to appoint top lawyer and Constitutional law expert Tommy Thomas as the AG has sparked a major disagreement with the King.

Dr Mahathir is adamant about replacing Tan Sri Apandi Ali, submitting only Thomas’ name to Sultan Muhammad V.

However, the King insisted on more than one name, according to sources close to the royalty.

On Facebook, Rodney Toh said Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy and the King must follow the Federal Constitution.

“The Constitution says Agong shall appoint the AG based on the advice of the PM. PM has advised. Now Agong should appoint,” he added.

Natasha Jt said the rakyat is urging the King to give his fullest cooperation to its elected Government without further delay.

“We don't want wool pulled over our eyes anymore, which the previous AG and regime did,” she added.

Netizens also responded to a recent statement by Parti Amanah Negara legal head Hanipa Maidin, who supported Thomas and said he was “disgusted and tired” with the AG appointment being made a racial issue. 

Ray James Scully voiced his respect and agreement with Hanipa’s stance.

“An AG must be independent and does not matter which race. There are bodies which can advise on Islamic issues,” he added.

As it's a New Malaysia, said Kamarulzaman Kamaruddin, let us move on with “no more racial and religious issues undermining this country”.

Suran Thran also pointed out that in this case, it is a Malay lawyer insisting on the appointment of an Indian person for the top post.

“This is the mentality of Malaysians under the new government. Well done Sir. Spoken as a true Malaysian,” he added.

However, Zam Ree urged Malaysians to ”let our Ruler choose” the right candidate for the new AG post, while Christie Kung reminded other commenters to remember the concepts of the Rukun Negara.

“Let the King make a decision. His Majesty is the highest administrator. Politicians come and go,” she said.