New bill gives Najib extensive powers
Malaysia heading towards an authoritarian regime, warn lawyers and NGOs
Kuala Lumpur
MALAYSIAN Prime Minister Najib Razak is set to extend his considerable grip on power after the National Security Council (NSC) Bill, which gives vast executive powers to a newly created statutory body that he will head as chairman, was rushed through the House of Representatives late Thursday.
Local and international civil society groups are appealing to the Senate to stay its approval and requesting the Malaysian monarch not to give his assent to the bill on the grounds that it gives the council considerable discretionary powers and is open to abuse.
BT is now on Telegram!
For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to t.me/BizTimes
International
Philippines denies deal with China over disputed South China Sea shoal
When US diplomats visit China, meal choices are about more than taste buds
China’s first-quarter industrial profits rise at slower pace
Laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, rich cuisine and low cost of living lure more expat retirees to Malaysia
Vietnam tycoon appeals against US$27 billion fraud death sentence
US announces new restrictions on firearm exports