OPINION | PMX: Royalty Should Not Get Involved in Elections

By M.Krishnamoorthy

A former Associate Professor, author, media coach, and journalist

Hey! Did you know the Royalty cannot interfere in politics or support any party?

Pakatan Harapan (PH) has reminded that the Johor State Election (PRN) must remain a battle between political parties and should not involve any institution of the Malay Rulers, as reported by Berita Harian.

The Malay Mail reported on 23rd June 2026: “PH chairman, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that each party should understand their respective limits and roles and avoid actions that could cause misunderstandings. This PRN involves parties; do not try to involve other parties. That is my advice. In a Constitutional Monarchy, there are limits. If there is a problem or disagreement, we will negotiate properly," he said.

Speaking at the PH Candidate Announcement Ceremony on 24th June 2026 for the Johor PRN in Bukit Gambir, Anwar also stressed the importance of good relations between the Federal government and the institution of the Malay Rulers, especially in Johor.

Johor Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi denied claims that the Johor palace had “ordered” the dissolution of the Johor legislative assembly. He said the dissolution was carried out only after obtaining consent from Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail, in line with Article 23, Second Part, of the Laws of the State of Johor.

Meanwhile, the Malay Mail reported: “Johor Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi denied claims that the Johor palace had “ordered” the dissolution of the Johor legislative assembly. He said the dissolution was carried out only after obtaining consent from Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail, in line with Article 23, Second Part, of the Laws of the State of Johor.

Hafiz replied to other questions on the imminent Johore elections. Did Johor's assembly dissolution follow royal orders or constitutional process?

Answer: The dissolution followed a constitutional process rather than royal orders.

Hafuz added that the Menteri Besar cannot dissolve the assembly freely.

Onn Hafiz described attempts to portray the process as irresponsible, saying it could lead the public to believe the royal institution interfered in Johor Umno’s political decisions. He said Johor Umno will lodge a police report to allow investigations and further action by authorities, and he urged respect for the royal institution and adherence to the constitution.

Ends

Freelance Writer M. Krishnamoorthy (https://helloimkrishna.com/) is a media coach, former Associate Professor, and undercover journalist. He has freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German, and Australian Television networks, and the New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns.

M. Krishnamoorthy (krishnamuthaly@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!

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