PETALING JAYA: The police have advised the public not to participate in any gatherings organised by any parties.
In a statement on Friday (Jan 3), the police made the announcement following the decree from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, on pardons or sentence reductions for convicted prisoners, as outlined in Article 42(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution.
The police emphasised that those seeking a pardon must submit applications through the appropriate legal channels, specifically to the Pardons Board, rather than through public assemblies or any non-legal means.
"This clearly guides all parties wishing to seek a pardon to submit applications to the Pardons Board and not through assemblies or any channels that do not comply with the law.
"In honouring the decree of The Yang di-Pertuan Agong and maintaining public safety and order, the police urge the public not to participate in any gatherings organised by any parties," the statement said.
Additionally, the police called on all citizens to uphold the principles of the Rukun Negara.
"All citizens are called upon to always uphold the principles of the Rukun Negara, particularly the rules of law, as well as courtesy and morality, which are the pillars of the nation's prosperity and harmony," it added.
Earlier in the day, Istana Negara issued a statement, saying the King has the prerogative to pardon, postpone sentences, and relieve punishments for any offences committed in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan based on the provisions under Articles 42 (1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution.
It also stated that the King can remit, suspend, or lighten any punishments by the courts for these offences.
"The King's power is exercised with the advice from the Pardons Board, which His Majesty chairs.
"As such, if there are those who want to recommend any convict/prisoner for pardon or reduced sentences, it must be submitted by the prisoner for consideration of the board, which will be chaired by the King during the next meeting," the statement read.
Istana Negara reminded everyone to respect the Constitution and the laws.
A solidarity gathering has been planned for 9am on Monday (Jan 6) outside the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya, in conjunction with the Court of Appeal’s hearing related to an alleged royal addendum order that will allow former premier Datuk Seri Najib Razak to serve the rest of his prison term under house arrest.
