The Dewan Rakyat passed two bills and concluded the royal address debate this week, with ministers outlining policy updates on subsidies, education, and law.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat passed a motion of thanks for the royal address this week, concluding a major parliamentary debate. The motion was approved by a majority vote after 150 MPs participated over several weeks.
Two significant bills were also passed during the fourth week of the sitting. The International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation Bill 2025 supports ratifying the UN’s Singapore Convention.
The Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link Bill 2026 was also approved. It aims to strengthen the legal framework for the cross-border transport project.
During ministry winding-up sessions, several key policy updates were announced. The Home Ministry will begin amending the Security Offences Act 2012 following Cabinet approval.
The education ministries are examining technical aspects of making Bahasa Melayu and History compulsory for all streams. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the focus includes assessment methods for various school types.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said targeted subsidies have protected 85% of the population. He stated the measures saved RM6 billion on petrol and RM5 billion on diesel subsidies.
The Prime Minister also vowed to intensify efforts against illegal gambling. He noted enforcement actions have led to seizures amounting to billions of ringgit.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said his ministry is studying proposals to use MyKad for buying subsidised cooking oil. The study is being done with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living.
On institutional integrity, Deputy Minister M. Kulasegaran affirmed the rule of law applies to all individuals without exception. This statement followed allegations involving MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki.
Two other bills were tabled for first reading this week. They are the Environmental Quality Bill 2026 and the Capitation Grant Bill 2026.
The current parliamentary meeting opened on Jan 19 with a royal address by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim. The sitting will resume on Feb 23 after a break for festive celebrations.
