Accept the King’s Decree on Prisoner Pardons – PM Anwar

3 January 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged relevant parties to understand and accept the King of Malaysia's recent statement concerning applications for pardons or sentence reductions for prisoners.

During a press conference following his visit to Lestari Niaga MADANI@KL 2 and a lunch at the Section 10 Wangsa Maju Hawker Centre, the Prime Minister addressed questions regarding the Istana Negara statement, which emphasized that any application for pardon or sentence reduction must be submitted by the prisoner themselves for consideration by the Pardons Board, chaired by the King.

“You must read, digest, and accept His Majesty's decree,” he stated.

When asked if the Istana Negara statement was related to the upcoming 'Solidarity with Najib Razak' gathering at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya next Monday, Anwar reiterated, “You must read” the Istana Negara statement.

In its announcement, Istana Negara affirmed that the King holds the prerogative power under Article 42(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution to grant pardons, defer sentences, and provide relief for any offences committed in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya. The King also has the authority to remit, suspend, or mitigate any court-imposed sentences for such offences.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister arrived around 12:30 PM and was welcomed by Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who is also the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability. Members of the public expressed their surprise and delight at the presence of the nation's top leader at the venue.

Anwar took the opportunity to engage with food stall traders at the food court, accompanied by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr. Zaliha Mustafa.