Opposition’s Failure to Support Parliament Strengthening Efforts

KUALA LUMPUR: The Opposition’s failure to vote for the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 at Dewan Rakyat today shows their disinterest in supporting efforts to strengthen the Parliament as an independent institution.

Government’s Disappointment

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil expressed his disappointed at the actions of the 57 Opposition MPs who abstained from voting to pass the bill.

“We should look at the positions of the Speakers of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara in the Parliamentary Service Council as the right move to strengthen Parliament itself. This effort should be welcomed by the Opposition.

“But we see them failing, not only when we hear their debates veering so far off from what was tabled but their own attitude of not wanting to help in the process to ensure an independent Parliament,” he said at a media conference at the Parliament building.

Bill Passage

The bill was passed by 148 MPs during the second and third reading, with 17 MPs absent and 57 abstaining.

Government’s Appreciation

Meanwhile, Fahmi, who is also MADANI Government spokesman, conveyed his appreciation to the 148 MPs who supported and helped to pass the bill.

He described it as a historic moment as the MADANI Government had restored the process to democratise the institution of Parliament.

“I, on behalf of the government, would like to state my appreciation to the 148 MPs who voted to amend the Constitution, enabling the Speakers of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara to join the Parliamentary Services Council that will be set up, Insya-Allah.

“So, substantively, we managed to bring a more meaningful bill for the Parliament in Malaysia,” he added.

Historic Moment

Fahmi described the passage of the bill as a historic moment for the country, saying it marked a significant step towards strengthening the institution of Parliament.

“This is a significant step towards democratizing the institution of Parliament, ensuring that it is more independent and accountable to the people,” he said.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025?

A: The bill aims to strengthen the institution of Parliament by enabling the Speakers of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara to join the Parliamentary Services Council.

Q: Why did the Opposition abstain from voting on the bill?

A: The Opposition chose to abstain from voting on the bill, indicating their disinterest in supporting efforts to strengthen the Parliament as an independent institution.

Q: What is the significance of the bill’s passage?

A: The passage of the bill marks a significant step towards democratizing the institution of Parliament, ensuring that it is more independent and accountable to the people.

Q: How did the government respond to the Opposition’s actions?

A: The government expressed disappointment and frustration over the Opposition’s decision to abstain from voting on the bill, viewing it as a lack of support for efforts to strengthen the Parliament.