KUALA LUMPUR – Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, has welcomed the Federal Government’s initiatives to strengthen Malaysia’s legal framework, describing them as crucial for safeguarding national integrity and stability.
Speaking during the Opening Ceremony of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament on 19 January, His Majesty highlighted several proposed reforms, including limiting the tenure of the Prime Minister to two terms or 10 years, separating the roles of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor, and introducing both a Freedom of Information Act and an Ombudsman Institution.
“This includes efforts to limit the term of office of the Prime Minister to two terms or 10 years, separating the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor, as well as the introduction of the Freedom of Information Act and the Ombudsman Institution,” His Majesty said.
The King stressed that Malaysia must also prepare for modern challenges such as digital security threats, misinformation, and the rise of “deep fake” technology, which can facilitate fraud and destabilise society. He warned that these issues, if left unchecked, could undermine public trust and national cohesion.
His Majesty further noted that serious crime, violence, and sensitive issues involving race, religion, and royalty, often referred to as the “3R”, must be addressed decisively. He called for the immediate establishment of laws to strengthen national security and protect against foreign threats, emphasising that only through such measures can racial harmony and sovereignty be preserved.
“The threat of serious crime and violence and acts that touch the ‘3R’ must also be dealt with effectively. Therefore, laws regarding national security and foreign threats should be established immediately because only in this way, harmony between races and national sovereignty will always be preserved,” His Majesty said.
The Royal Address sets a strong tone for the parliamentary session, signalling that legal reforms and security measures will be central to Malaysia’s legislative agenda. His Majesty’s support for these initiatives reflects growing recognition of the need to modernise governance structures while ensuring that the country remains resilient against emerging risks.
The proposals are expected to spark significant debate among lawmakers, particularly regarding the balance between transparency, accountability, and national security. However, His Majesty’s endorsement underscores the urgency of implementing reforms that will strengthen Malaysia’s institutions and protect its future.
