KUALA LUMPUR, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's resignation has officially been accepted by the country's King, the chief secretary to the government Mohd Zuki Ali said Monday.

The King also appointed Mahathir to serve as the interim prime minister until a new one could be appointed to the position according to constitutional provisions, he said in a statement.

The Prime Minister's Office said earlier in the day that the 94-year-old has tendered his resignation.
The interim prime minister post would be for a maximum of 10 days, a source told Malaysiakini.

Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador said the king instructed the police to ensure peace and order in the country.

Hamid said: “I urge the people to not make any speculations.”

“The democracy process is running smoothly. I also urge the political leaders and the people to be patient.”