KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat descended into chaos today when a government backbencher likened the global recognition received by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to that of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.
The commotion began when Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul allowed RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) to pose a supplementary question to Anwar during the Prime Minister's Question Time.
Rayer began his question by commending the federal government under Anwar's leadership for its ongoing efforts to reform governance and administration.
"Prime Minister, I observe that the measures rolled out to reform governance and administration are actively being implemented by the government today.
"At the same time, the global recognition received by the Prime Minister is on par with figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela," he said.
The remark from Rayer did not sit well with opposition members of Parliament, as discontented murmurs and jeers were heard from their bloc.
Some MPs were heard making sarcastic remarks at Rayer, suggesting he be given a ministerial post. Unfazed by the opposition MPs, Rayer proceeded to ask his question to Anwar.
"Hulu Terengganu did not stand up, nor did Masjid Tanah.
"My question is regarding the term 'respected convict,' which has been criticised in this august House.
"I request the Prime Minister to clarify the term he used," Rayer said.
At this juncture, Johari had to instruct MPs, including Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin (PN-Masjid Tanah) and Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh (PN-Besut), to remain seated.
Johari also asked Anwar to immediately answer the question posed by Rayer, as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, To Lam, and his delegation had just arrived in Malaysia and were waiting in Putrajaya.
Mas Ermieyati: The PAC (Public Accounts Committee) also wants to ask questions.
Anwar: One moment... I only have two minutes.
Che Mohamaed: Since yesterday, Jelutong has been shouting, issuing challenges.
Anwar: Alright... alright... I request (while bowing to Johari to excuse himself).
Johari: I have decided that the Prime Minister does not need to answer. Please proceed (motioning for Anwar to leave).
Anwar: A delegation from Vietnam is on an official visit. Do you not understand what an official visit means?
Che Mohamad: Alright, but when can we get a response?
As he was leaving the session, Anwar made a passing remark when he told the opposition MPs that he was unfazed by insults as he was focused on his work.
"I must say, these insults don't bother me. I have work to do.
"I've endured insults for decades, and on the opposite side, some were once my strongest defenders. Thank you," he said.