For people's sake, set aside differences – Johor ruler's olive branch

Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar appears to have offered an olive branch to Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

In a Facebook posting this afternoon, the monarch suggested that discussions be held to iron out the problems.

“If there are disagreements or misunderstandings, especially involving the relationship between the state of Johor and the federal government, I suggest we set aside any differences.

“On the contrary, it would be better to meet and discuss in a mature manner for the good of all, especially the people,” he added.

However, the post did not mention Mahathir's name.

Sultan Ibrahim also noted that the new menteri besar, Dr Shahruddin Jamal, and executive council have been appointed.

“I hope that after this, the focus would be on the pledge to develop Johor.

“Therefore, the new leadership must be united and double their efforts to improve and safeguard the people's interest and welfare.

“At the same time, I hope that all quarters can give their fullest cooperation so that the administration and management of Johor proceed in a smooth manner,” he added.

Mahathir and the Johor palace had locked horns over the appointment of the new menteri besar following Osman Sapian's resignation after 11 months at the helm.

The prime minister also saw red over the reshuffle of the exco lineup, which was a precondition set by the sultan for the incoming menteri besar.

Prior to this, Mahathir also appeared to blame Johor crown prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim for Malaysia withdrawing from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Yesterday, the prime minister claimed that the constitutions of Terengganu and Johor were nullified following the formation of the Federation of Malaya.