Malaysia’s Senate concludes a 12-day session, passing six bills including RTS Link and environmental amendments, while approving major procedural reforms.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Negara adjourned sine die today after a 12-day session that saw the passage of six significant bills.
The sitting, which began on February 23, concluded with the Senate president’s adjournment speech.
Key legislation passed includes the Supplementary Supply Bill (2025) 2026 and the Capitation Grant Bill 2026 under the Finance Ministry.
Also approved were the International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation Bill 2025 and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link Bill 2026.
The Environmental Quality (Amendment) Bill 2026 and the Employment Insurance System (Amendment) Bill 2025 were also passed during the session.
Debates throughout the sitting focused on issues like racial provocation and the Kuala Lumpur mayoral election controversy.
Claims regarding the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) also sparked heated discussions.
Dewan Negara president Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah (pic) expressed appreciation to the 47 senators for their contributions.
He highlighted the approval of amendments to the Dewan Negara Standing Orders as a major procedural step.
“Amendments to the Dewan Negara Standing Orders were also approved, which represent an inclusive step in preparation for the implementation of the Parliamentary Services Act 2025, expected to come into force this year,” he said.
The 19 substantive changes aim to strengthen executive accountability to the Upper House.
Awang Bemee stated this enhances the chamber’s check-and-balance function within the parliamentary system.
Three reports from Special Select Committees were also tabled during the sitting.
The Senate president announced the establishment of five new committees and the retention of three existing ones.
“With the establishment of these 12 committees, it requires a high level of commitment from Honourable Members,” he said.
He noted this structure is intended to bolster the Dewan Negara’s authority in the national law-making process.
Awang Bemee also acknowledged senators who have completed or are nearing the end of their service.
He extended Aidilfitri greetings to all Parliament staff and members before formally closing the session.
