Sarawak’s assembly passes constitutional amendment allowing up to four additional cabinet members to address growing governance demands and expanded legislature.
KUCHING: The Sarawak Legislative Assembly has passed a constitutional amendment enabling the state government to appoint up to four additional members to its cabinet.
The Constitution of the State of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill 2025 received 74 votes in favour with only two against after 23 assembly members participated in the debate.
Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the current cabinet structure needed strengthening to reflect Sarawak’s expanding administrative landscape.
He noted the Majlis Mesyuarat Kerajaan Negeri currently comprises the Premier and 10 ministers under Article 6(3) of the State Constitution.
The amendment follows the recent expansion of the assembly from 82 to 99 members after the enforcement of the Members of Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Ordinance 2025 on August 8.
“With the increase in constituencies and administrative areas, the present composition of the MMKN is no longer proportionate to the state’s expanding governance structure,” Abdul Karim said.
He added that several ministers currently hold multiple portfolios, resulting in heavier administrative responsibilities.
“Therefore, an increase in the number of members of the MMKN is both reasonable and necessary,” he stated.
The minister emphasised this would strengthen the state’s executive machinery and enhance policy coordination.
He said the amendment would allow the state government to better respond to people’s needs and deliver services more effectively.
Abdul Karim stressed the new provision remained within the constitutional authority of the state legislature.
“The core composition prescribed under Article 6 remains untouched,” he clarified.
The amendment introduces an enabling provision allowing the Yang di-Pertua Negeri to appoint up to four additional members when necessary.
He described the move as a carefully calibrated mechanism providing flexibility within the existing constitutional design.
