KUALA LUMPUR: Police are awaiting further instructions from the Attorney-General's Chambers (A-GC) on their investigation into allegations that Negri 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 said the investigation papers were referred to the A-GC on Sept 29 for review and further instructions.
It said further police action would depend on the outcome of the review and the A-GC's directives.
"Police 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.
Cha Kee Chin (PH-Rasah) had asked for an update on the investigation into Ismail's Sept 8 police report and 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 Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.
The government aims to complete the registration of all refugees under the Domestic Refugee Registration Document Programme by Dec 31, 2029.
The Home Ministry said 4,010 individuals had been registered under the programme's first phase as of June, following its implementation on Jan 1 this year.
Of the total, 4,008 were from Myanmar, 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 would cover individuals outside immigration detention depots, including holders of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees 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. -- BERNAMA
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