Calls for Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin's resignation got louder after the king rebuked his government.
Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah accused Muhyiddin's government of misleading parliament over the status of Covid-19 emergency measures.
Muhyiddin's administration declared a state of emergency in January with the consent of the king. The declaration allowed him to halt parliament and rule without legislative approval. Muhyiddin was criticized for the declaration - which some called a ruse for him to cling to power as he faced increased political opposition.
Earlier this week parliament was allowed to resume for the first time this year - albeit for a five-day special session only. The government said the session would be used to brief politicians on the pandemic only and no motions would be allowed.
Malaysia's king took issue with the government's annulling of emergency ordinances ahead of an Aug. 1 expiration. Sultan Abdullah said he didn't approve and it served only to confuse members of the legislature.
Sultan Abdullah asked Law Minister Takiyuddin Hassan to present the issue in parliament for debate but his request was not granted. He said the government was too hasty and disregarded the rule of law and his function as the head of state.
The king's accusations immediately sparked outrage in parliament - with some members calling Muhyiddin's actions "treason." The opposition reiterated its call for Muhyiddin's resignation.
Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim filed a no-confidence motion. He said that the king's statement was proof Muhyiddin and his cabinet "violated the constitution" and "insulted the royal institution."
Muhyiddin defended his actions saying he had informed the king. He said under the constitution, the king must accept cabinet advice and act on its recommendations.
"The government is of the view that all the actions taken are in order and in accordance with the provisions of the law and the federal constitution," Muhyiddin said.
Experts said the royal rebuke undermined Muhyiddin's unelected government. Without royal support, Muhyiddin is unlikely to remain in power.
"Muhyiddin was dependent on the king's support. He was standing on the back of the king's support. Today that leg was pulled away," University of Nottingham expert in Southeast Asian politics, Bridget Welsh, said.
