AG must petition Federal Court to intervene in royal crisis

The Negeri Sembilan royal crisis has exposed an unprecedented challenge to Malaysia's constitutional fabric, as the customary authorities of the chieftains clash with the state council. When a constitutional functionary or agency acts arbitrarily, or a potential institutional legitimacy vacuum emerges, the judiciary must act. The attorney-general, as guardian of public interest, should ideally petition the Federal Court to intervene via a suo motu order.

This proactive step is necessary to preserve constitutional dignity and national harmony. The Federal Court's inherent power to issue such orders is not "judicial activism" but judicial dynamism. The Malaysian judiciary must embrace this right, recognizing the oath of office that obligates judges to protect the constitution. The attorney-general's involvement is crucial, alongside the Malaysian Bar Council, Sabah Law Society, and Sarawak Advocates Association, to ensure a collective, nationwide perspective.

A full coram of at least nine Federal Court judges is required to definitively address the constitutional crisis and restore clarity to the rule of law.