The council said the sultan interfering in the state government’s affairs would be in breach of Malaysia’s constitutional monarchy system.

In a statement, it said the term “decree” often used by a sultan simply meant “advice” in everyday language, and does not constitute a royal command.

It said Sultan Sharafuddin’s decrees were aimed at ensuring that every action taken by the Selangor government was in line with the constitution and state enactments, and in the people’s interests.

“In the context of Selangor, the menteri besar is required to discuss every administrative matter that involves the interests and welfare of the people with the sultan.

“Discussions here mean informing the sultan about the state’s administration so that His Royal Highness can be informed and may offer advice before a decision is finalised,” it said.

The council said the sultan’s advice is based on the people’s interests, not politics.

It also said Sultan Sharafuddin does not want to be a rubber stamp or merely fulfill formalities in carrying out his role as a constitutional monarchy.

“The sultan acts as a check and balance on the executive to ensure that the interests of the people are preserved and protected.

“The royal council is confident that Sultan Sharafuddin, with 25 years’ worth of experience as the Sultan of Selangor and 33 years as Raja Muda Selangor, truly understands his role under the law in line with the constitutional monarchy system,” it said.

The council also said the ruler often receives complaints about issues such as floods, slow trash collection, and pothole-ridden roads, among others.

It said the sultan places an important emphasis on effective action over empty promises when resolving issues faced by Selangor folk.