‘King wants political unity’

KUALA LUMPUR: The King has called on politicians across the divide to unite in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic and its resulting economic fallout, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Opposition Leader said this was conveyed to him by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah during an audience at Istana Negara here yesterday.

Point of departure: Ahmad Zahid waving as he leaves Istana Negara after his audience with the King. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star

The King granted a joint audience to the political party heads.

“Everyone gave their views and it seemed that there was a consensus to put a stop to the politics of old. The new political landscape must focus on development.

“The issue here is not the appointment of a new prime minister, but that the King and Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong want a new political landscape that is more peaceful and refreshing for Malaysians,” Anwar told reporters after exiting Gate 2 at Istana Negara.

Anwar, who is PKR president, added that the King also said there should not be any “sore losers” when a new prime minister is appointed to replace Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who resigned on Monday.Press members had started gathering near Gate 2 from 10am yesterday despite a drizzle, with many taking shelter under a mini tent put up by palace officials, who also prepared food for them.

Police officers placed cones at the side of the road to prevent political leaders from giving impromptu press conferences. But Anwar alighted from his car to speak to the press.Joining him later were DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng and Parti Amanah Negara president Mohamad Sabu, who came in separate vehicles.

Other leaders who met the King were Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Parti Pejuang Tanah Air president Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir and PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, who left without speaking to the press.