Pardons are the King's prerogative, says Istana Negara

Pardons are the King's prerogative, says Istana Negara

ISTANA Negara has reiterated that any proposal for a prisoner to be granted a pardon or sentence reduction must be submitted to the Pardons Board for consideration.

Istana Negara, in a statement, said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong holds the prerogative to grant pardons under Articles 42(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution, based on the advice of the Pardons Board he chairs, for offences committed within the Federal Territories.

“The King's power is exercised with the advice from the Pardons Board, which he chairs.

“As such if there are those who want to recommend any convict/ prisoner for pardon or reduced sentences must be submitted by the prisoner for consideration of the board which will be chaired by the King during the next meeting,” the statement said.

Istana Negara also urged all parties to respect the Federal Constitution and uphold the rule of law in such matters.

The statement comes amid plans for a rally in support of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who has a court appearance on Jan 6 over his challenge to be allowed to serve the remainder of his jail sentence under house arrest. - January 3, 2025