KUALA LUMPUR: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul today urged members of parliament not to call for a quorum during Maghrib prayers.
Johari acknowledged that while it was the right of MPs to call for a quorum, he said this could disrupt those who were praying.
"I was informed that on Oct 21, Pengkalan Chepa (Datuk Dr Ahmad Marzuk Shaary) called for a quorum. I understand this is the representative's right.
"However, I urge the MPs to consider that Maghrib is a very brief time. If possible … I'm not saying it cannot be done, but please do not call for a quorum during Maghrib.
"Those who are praying (at that time) may feel unsure whether to continue their prayers or return to the lower house when the bell rings.
"I sincerely urge you (the MPs)...I don't need an answer… I earnestly ask you not to call for a quorum during Maghrib," he said in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Marzuk, however, responded that at that time only one MP was in the surau performing Maghrib prayers.
Johari then responded; "I don't need an answer. Please do not call for a quorum during Maghrib prayers. Prayers don't necessarily have to take place in the surau."
On Oct 21, the Dewan Rakyat proceedings were postponed to the next day after the lower house failed to meet the minimum quorum of 26 members of parliament in attendance. (Link: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/1123310/dewan-rakyat-sitting-...)
The point of order was raised by Marzuk, following the debate by Mohd Hasnizan Harun (PN-Hulu Selangor) on the 2025 Budget.
The call was supported by Hassan Abdul Karim (PH-Pasir Gudang), who advised Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah, who chaired the proceedings, to ring the bell if the quorum was not met.
Under Standing Order 13, there must be at least 26 MPs in the 222-seat Dewan Rakyat for proceedings to be held.
After a headcount, Shahar said there were only 17 MPs present. He then ordered the Parliament secretary to ring the bell for two minutes to call in those outside the House. After the bell rang for two minutes, the number of MPs only rose to 19.