KUALA LUMPUR – The Madani Government Backbenchers Club (BBC) has launched a scathing attack on Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin, denouncing his claim that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has betrayed the royal institution as a baseless and malicious fabrication.
In a statement, the BBC said the allegation was a familiar opposition tactic aimed at misleading the public by exploiting royal sentiments for political gain.
“This is an irresponsible attempt to create unease among the people.
“Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed the existence of a royal decree from the Sultan of Pahang regarding house detention for former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
“He explained that the decree was never presented to him and stressed that matters related to the addendum decree fall under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), not his responsibilities as prime minister. Stating the truth cannot be considered an act of betrayal,” the statement read.
The BBC further said that Hamzah’s allegations reflected an irresponsible stance that could harm relations between the government and the monarchy while tarnishing Malaysia’s image on the international stage.
“Throughout his administration, PMX (Anwar) has consistently shown the utmost respect for the royal institution and upheld the principles of constitutional monarchy. Every government action aligns with constitutional provisions and prioritises national interests.
“The claim that investors will shy away from Malaysia due to alleged disloyalty is baseless.
“Investor confidence depends on economic stability, investor-friendly policies, and trust in the country’s leadership, not politically motivated accusations detached from reality,” it added.
Earlier, Scoop reported that Hamzah had accused Anwar and the government of concealing the royal addendum order during the debate on the Royal Address in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday.
Hamzah, who is also the MP for Larut, claimed that withholding the decree amounted to defying the command of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Following the allegation, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul ruled that the controversy surrounding addendum on Najib’s house arrest could not be raised during parliamentary debates starting Tuesday.
The decision was made under Standing Order 36(2) after a heated exchange in the House when Hamzah brought up the issue.
Johari also banned the use of the word derhaka (treason) in discussions on the decree, citing Standing Order 36(7). – February 5, 2025