January 7, 2019

KUALA LUMPUR - While there has been public debate over Sultan Muhammad V's conduct as head of state since Pakatan Harapan (PH) won the landmark May 9 election, the idea of the Kelantan ruler ending his reign prematurely was unthinkable, as no previous Agong had ever abdicated.

But discomfort had been growing among some of the other Malay rulers over the damage the royal institution had suffered in that time.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad had complained in June that Sultan Muhammad had not abided by the rule of law in delaying his installation as Premier and the appointment of a new Attorney-General.

Read more:

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/change-of-malaysias-king-comes-after-brewing-disquiet