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6 Things You Need To Know About The State Of Emergency In Malaysia

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Cheng Sim •  Jan 12, 2021

On 12 January 2021, The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has proclaimed a nationwide state of emergency (darurat) until 1 August 2021. Following a special announcement by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, here’s what you need to know about the State of Emergency in Malaysia.

What is a state of emergency?

  • According to Clause (1) of Article 150 of the Federal Constitution states: "If the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is satisfied that a grave emergency exists whereby the security, or the economic life, or public order in the Federation or any part thereof is threatened, he may issue a Proclamation of Emergency making therein a declaration to that effect."

Why did His Majesty proclaim a state of emergency nationwide?

  • In a statement made by Datuk Pengelola Bijaya Diraja of Istana Negara, Datuk Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin, His Majesty declared an emergency until 1 August 2021 to curb the increase of COVID-19 cases and manage the worsening flood situation in Malaysia.

What will happen during the state of emergency in Malaysia?

  1. On 12 January 2021, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced that the state of emergency is not a military coup and no curfew will be enforced.
  2. The civilian government will continue to function and judiciary will be the beacon of justice of the country.
  3. No general election, state election, and by-elections will be held during the state of emergency
  4. As reported by Malay Mail, "a special committee would also be formed to monitor the situation during the emergency period and to make an assessment on when the state of emergency could be lifted."
  5. Economic sectors are allowed to operate based on SOPs and the government ensures that the Rakyat is allowed to work as usual.
  6. His Majesty encouraged the Rakyat to adhere to the SOP guidelines to curb the rise of COVID-19 cases