Dewan Rakyat Speaker vows firm action against MPs who touch on racial, religious or royal sentiments, following the King’s directive to preserve harmony.
KUALA LUMPUR: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul has stressed that all Members of Parliament must heed the King’s reprimand regarding the ban on playing up racial, religious and royal (3R) sentiments.
Johari said he would not compromise and strict action would be taken against any MP who crosses the red line set in accordance with the King’s directive.
He reminded all MPs not to arbitrarily take advantage of the 3R issue or engage in politics in debates, despite being protected by parliamentary privileges.
“I and the deputy speakers will ensure that the 3R issue is not used at will because it can invite misunderstandings and create an atmosphere of disharmony among the people and the leadership,” he said.
“If I act, do not blame me because His Majesty has himself stressed that the 3R issue cannot be used for personal purposes or to politicise matters that should not be politicised in the Dewan Rakyat.”
The King issued a strong warning against corruption and the 3R issue in his Royal Address at the opening of Parliament.
Johari also urged MPs to focus their debate on key issues like the 13th Malaysia Plan rather than trivial matters.
“Give constructive views and suggestions to develop the country,” he advised.
He said institutional reform would continue to ensure more orderly proceedings, including increasing the number of questions MPs can ask.
Johari announced the Special Chamber of the Dewan Rakyat would move to a larger hall this year.
He said this would allow more guests, including students and constituents, to follow proceedings on local issues.
“I believe this measure will not only increase transparency but also strengthen the relationship between representatives of the people and the people in their constituencies,” he said.
