It's Official: Tommy Thomas Is Malaysia's New Attorney-General
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong also consented to the termination of Tan Sri Mohamed Apandi Ali's service.
By Jia Vern Tham — 05 Jun 2018, 09:34 AM
Comptroller of the Royal Household Datuk Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz announced through a statement yesterday, 4 June, that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong has given his consent to the appointment of Tommy Thomas as Malaysia's new Attorney-General
In a statement issued by Istana Negara, Wan Ahmad Dahlan said His Majesty Sultan Muhammad V has given his consent to Tommy Thomas' appointment on the advice of Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. This was in accordance with Article 145(1) of the Federal Constitution.
Bernama reported Wan Ahmad Dahlan as saying that the Agong called on all Malaysians to accept that Tommy Thomas' appointment should not stir religious or racial conflict.
"Every Malaysian should be fairly treated regardless of race and religion," Wan Ahmad Dahlan was quoted as saying by Bernama.
Former Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohamed Apandi Ali, who was previously placed on forced leave, has also been officially terminated from the job
Wan Ahmad Dahlan said the Agong also consented to Apandi's termination of service as the Attorney-General after considering the opinions of the Malay Rulers.
According to him, the Agong took into account opinions on the Attorney-General appointment, the rights of Bumiputeras, and the roles of the Council of Rulers as stated under Article 153 of the Federal Constitution before giving his consent to Apandi's termination.
Furthermore, Wan Ahmad Dahlan said the Agong also emphasised on his role to preserve the special rights of the Malays and Bumiputeras, as well as to protect Islam
The comptroller also said that Tommy Thomas' appointment will continue to preserve the special rights and privileges of the Malays and Bumiputeras, as well as the status of Islam.
Apart from that, the Agong regrets the "inaccurate and negative" media reports which could threaten peace and harmony in Malaysia.
Previously, the Conference of Rulers were allegedly pushing for the Attorney-General position to be given to a Malay-Muslim candidate.
