New King's reign to boost political stability, analysts say

Photo: Bernama

PETALING JAYA: Analysts expect the reign of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, to strengthen political stability in the country after unprecedented upheavals in the past few years that saw three prime ministers in one parliamentary term.

Political pundit Dr Tunku Mohar Tunku Mohd Mokhtar of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) believed that His Majesty could certainly help boost political stability in the country, going by his accomplishments as the Johor Ruler.

“As the Sultan of Johor, His Majesty had previously cautioned political parties against overthrowing and undermining the state government,” he said when contacted on Thursday (Feb 1).

"He always prioritises economic development, and the way to achieve it is through political stability. Also, in Johor, he calls the non-ruling parties 'pengimbang' (balancing force), not the opposition.

"I think he will also advocate this in the Dewan Rakyat and call for the 'balancing force' to play its legislative role more seriously and effectively,” he added.

Associate Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi of Universiti Malaya said His Majesty’s role will be prominent in the current landscape of a unity government.

“The role of the King under the unity government is more prominent, especially with the current King being firm and prioritising political stability, discouraging any attempts to overthrow the existing government,” he said.

He added, "His Majesty is also seen as uncompromising towards those who try to create discomfort and disharmony, particularly those playing on ethnic and religious issues for political support".

Independent political analyst Khoo Kay Peng said His Majesty is more likely to be a hands-on monarch who may not hesitate to haul up the government if he is unhappy with certain government decisions.

“(Prime Minister Datuk Seri) Anwar (Ibrahim) and other political (leaders) will also have to be content with an outspoken constitutional monarch who ... would not hesitate to haul up the government if he is not happy with any decisions or governance,” he said.

"Parties playing with religious and racial rhetoric would not be in His Majesty’s good books either," he added.

However, Khoo felt that Perikatan would continue to push for political gains.