The king’s rejection is a major setback for Muhyiddin, who is facing a leadership challenge from opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim and infighting within his ruling coalition. Critics have denounced his proposal for emergency rule as an attempt to maintain his grip on power as it would help him avoid a potential showdown in parliament. A resurgence in coronavirus cases and a pandemic-battered economy has also added to his woes. “Al-Sultan Abdullah is of the opinion that there is no need at the moment for His Majesty to declare an emergency in the country or in any part of the country of Malaysia,” the palace said in a statement. “His Majesty is confident in the ability of the government under the leadership of the prime minister to continue to implement policies and enforcement efforts to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.” The king also called for politicians to end any politicking that could destabilise the administration and highlighted the importance of the forthcoming budget, which the government is due to present on Nov. 6. Muhyiddin’s failure to win the house’s approval on the budget would be a vote of no-confidence against him, which in turn could trigger an election. Muhyiddin said the cabinet would discuss the king’s rejection of his request.