KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is awaiting further instructions from the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) on its investigation into allegations that Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim was coerced into signing an Instrument of Proclamation.
In a written reply published on the Parliament website, the Home Ministry (KDN) said the investigation papers were referred to the AGC on Sept 29 for review and further instructions.
It said any further action by the police would depend on the outcome of the AGC’s review and its directives.
“PDRM will take appropriate action in accordance with the prevailing laws, and the Home Ministry assures that the investigation is being conducted professionally, transparently and in compliance with the law, without favouring any party,” it said.
The response was in reply to a question from Cha Kee Chin (PH-Rasah), who sought an update on the investigation into a police report lodged by Ismail on Sept 8, as well as the action taken or to be taken against those involved.
The ministry said police had recorded statements from four individuals to assist in the investigation.
On Sept 9, Ismail alleged that he had been coerced into signing an Instrument of Proclamation intended to remove the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.
Meanwhile, the government aims to complete the registration of all refugees under the Domestic Refugee Registration Document Programme (DPP) by Dec 31, 2029.
The Home Ministry said 4,010 individuals had been registered under the first phase of the programme as of June, following its implementation on Jan 1 this year.
Of the total, 4,008 were Myanmar nationals, while one each was from Sudan and Syria.
The ministry said 400 individuals had been transferred to the Special Isolation Centre for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Bidor, Perak, for the status determination process, while 78 had been granted refugee status.
It said the second phase of the Foreign National Registration Programme (DPP) would cover individuals outside immigration detention depots, including holders of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cards and those claiming to be refugees.
“Based on the announced plans, this phase is scheduled to commence in the second half of this year, with the entire registration process targeted for completion by Dec 31, 2029.
“The implementation encompasses the collection of personal information and biometrics, security screening, as well as a process for the government to determine and verify individuals’ status,” the ministry said.
The reply was in response to a question from Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu), who sought an update on the implementation of the DPP and the extent to which the programme could address public concerns over the influx of foreign nationals into the country.
-- BERNAMA