KUALA LUMPUR, March 12 ― A number of non-governmental organisations banded together today to campaign for public support seeking an end to the nationwide state of Emergency ahead of its expected expiry on August 1.
Shah Alam MP Khalid Abdul Samad who chairs the informal coalition dubbed the Committee for the Cessation of State of Emergency launched the signature drive under the banner #TamatDarurat at Kampung Baru here this morning.
“Do not feel threatened when signing this petition. Unlike the protests in Myanmar, here we are only asking for signatures.
“We must collectively join forces and gain as much support for this campaign to eventually take it to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,” Khalid said.
Those interested to support the campaign can add their names to the petition online at www.tamatdarurat.com.
Yesterday, the High Court dismissed a leave application by three Pakatan Harapan (PH) lawmakers for a judicial review of the suspension of Parliament and state assembly sittings during the nationwide state of Emergency.
High Court judge Ahmad Kamal Md Shahid said in his ruling that there was no breach of Article 150(8) of the Federal Constitution, and therefore there could be no judicial review to challenge the decision of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong under Article 150(1) and Article 150(2B) of the Constitution.
Apart from that, as of today, individuals who create or publish fake news on Covid-19 or the Emergency proclamation could now face a fine of up to RM100,000 and imprisonment from tomorrow onwards according to, a check of the e-Federal Gazette
Khalid said this campaign was not started overnight due to the Courts decisions but was planned months ago.
He said they hoped to get as much signatories by the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan.
“There were calls for a petition to collect signatures and create a webpage to make it easier for those who also want this Emergency to end to express their displeasure.
“We hope to get as many people to sign the petition before Ramadan so we can present it to the Agong to show the peoples displeasure towards the prime minister actions,” said Khalid.
The Emergency Ordinance was implemented in January 14, 2021 and will last until August 1 2021.
It grants the government autonomy to suspend Parliament, paving the way for laws and regulations to be formed without approval from the Cabinet or Parliament.
