Dewan Rakyat debates two-term PM limit and strengthening Malay language as MPs call for education reforms and transparent graft probes.
KUALA LUMPUR: A proposed two-term limit for the prime minister dominated debate in the Dewan Rakyat today. Aminolhuda Hassan (PH-Sri Gading) called the measure fundamental for democracy and the nation’s future.
He said it reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to safeguarding democratic institutions. Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) agreed the proposal sends a positive signal about political power.
He further suggested the roles of Prime Minister and Finance Minister should be held separately. MPs also emphasised strengthening Malay as the national language.
Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi (PN-Tumpat) called for Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka to be empowered as the mandatory language authority. He proposed expanding its presence to the district level to act as regulator and guardian.
Datuk Ahmad Amzad Mohamed (PN-Kuala Terengganu) said elevating the language’s status is an obligation aligned with national education policy. “This is not about denying diversity, but about upholding loyalty to the foundations of our nation,” he said.
He argued that proficiency in Malay and knowledge of history are fundamental measures of loyalty to Malaysia. Education reform was another key topic of debate.
Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah (PN-Indera Mahkota) stressed the upcoming National Education Blueprint 2026–2035 requires tighter inter-ministerial coordination. He called for more integrated planning between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education.
Saifuddin welcomed a proposed four‑quadrant model for public universities to operate more flexibly. He said it could enhance competitiveness if rolled out consistently and backed by rigorous research.
He also called for a proposed Year Four examination to be carefully refined to support holistic student development. Several MPs unanimously called for all graft cases to be investigated transparently.
Hassan Abdul Karim (PH-Pasir Gudang), Bakri Jamaluddin (PN-Tangga Batu), and Datuk Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu) demanded probes without regard to position or influence. The Dewan Rakyat will resume tomorrow.
