KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat descended into chaos today when an opposition leader raised the issue of a controversial remark made by a DAP veteran regarding non-Malay prime ministers.
The remark made by opposition chief Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Baru) during his royal address debate today also delayed the debate session following protests made by DAP members.
"There was one issue that arose regarding a statement that was made on Nov 29, last year, by a political leader of a party that is now part of the government.
"Despite the backlash, a news report titled 'Kit Siang defends non-Malay can become prime minister statement' was published on Dec 13, last year."
"However, the matter is already resolved. Yes, there is no provision in the constitution stating that only certain groups can become prime minister, but why raise an issue that could create confusion?" he said during his debate in Dewan Rakyat, today.
Following this, opposition member RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) raised a Standing Order 36(12) over Takiyuddin's statement and claimed that it could confuse the House.
"History has shown that on Aug 3, 1973, the late V. T. Sambathan was an acting prime minister for a day. "Hence, I request Kota Baru (Takiyuddin) to not mislead the House by giving inaccurate remarks," he said.
Order was restored momentarily after Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul gave a warning to the lawmakers to sit and not disturb the debate session.
However, an uproar once again erupted after Takiyuddin raised the proposal put forth by DAP member of parliament Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham (PH-Beruas) who previously suggested that a non-Muslim constitutional expert be appointed to the Special Committee to study the competence of the State Legislative Assembly in enacting Islamic laws. (reference: https://www.nst.com.my/news/crime-courts/2024/01/1001885/interference%C2...)
The remark had also caught the attention of Chong Zhemin (PH-Kampar) who urged Johari to take action following a violation of Standing Order 36(12) of the House. "Beruas (Ngeh) has already retracted the statement made. Hence, it is no longer a suggestion, so why is the issue being raised now?"
Subsequently, Johari requested Takiyuddin to not bring the issue up again considering the matter had been withdrawn by Ngeh. However, Rayer once again sought Johari's intervention regarding his earlier request against Takiyuddin. Rayer's attempt, however, was stopped short by Johari who said Takiyuddin's remarks were merely a question and not a statement that could confuse the House.
"I have heard from Jelutong (Rayer) and Kota Baru (Takiyuddin). From my comprehension, what was mentioned by Kota Baru is a question.
"Hence, it does not mislead the House," said Johari.