Kuala Lumpur (Xinhua) -- Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakub announced the dissolution of the country's parliament on Monday, paving the way for snap elections that must be held within the next 60 days.

In a televised speech, Ismail Sabri said that he had obtained the approval of the country's king, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, to dissolve parliament, according to the country's constitution.

He explained that the past years witnessed many unprecedented developments after the 2018 national elections, including political doubts amid the change of many prime ministers and in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the social, economic and political situation in the country.

"With this announcement, the mandate will be returned to the people, as that mandate is a powerful antidote for the country to restore political stability and form a firm, stable and respectful government after the elections," Ismail Sabry added.

The Election Commission in Malaysia has not announced the date of polling day yet, but general elections are usually held within a period not exceeding two months after the dissolution of parliament, as voters are scheduled to choose 222 members of the House of Representatives.