The last day of the Dewan Rakyat sitting for the current session was marked by a cordial atmosphere all round and a poignant speech by the Speaker that touched the hearts of lawmakers on both sides of the political divide.

Before adjourning sine die the Third Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 12th Parliament, Speaker Pandikar Amin Mulia in his speech touched on his bitter-sweet experience in presiding over the parliamentary sittings since 2008.

He said this might also be the last meeting before the holding of the 13th general election.

Veteran parliamentarian Azmi Khalid (BN-Padang Besar) when asked by reporters to comment on Pandikar Amin's adjournment speech, described it as touching.

"The speech covered the Dewan Rakyat proceedings since 2008 until today. To me, Pandikar Amin has managed to control the meetings well, that the Malaysian Parliament has reached a commendable level of maturity from its experience and history," he said.

Azmi who also stated that he would not be contesting in the upcoming general election, hoped that those who wish to be called "Yang Berhormat" after this, would serve the people and country with sincerity.

Hatta: He could control the house

Opposition MP Dr Mohd Hatta Ramli (PAS-Kuala Krai) said the Speaker's adjournment speech came from a sincere heart.

"He has done a good job throughout the four years. Even in the most tense of situations,  Pandikar Amin managed to control it; only stern words came from him."

Mohd Hatta said there were times when Pandikar Amin had to suspend a lawmaker but he believed that the Speaker had his own good reasons.

At the end of the sitting, some lawmakers including Noraini Ahmad (BN-Parit Sulong) and Mohd Radzi Sheikh Ahmad (BN-Kangar) were seen taking group photographs in the House for remembrance.

Opposition MP Fong Po Kuan (DAP-Batu Gajah) was seen shaking hands with media reporters at the Parliament lobby.

"This moment touches your emotions," said Fong, while thanking the reporters who have been covering the parliamentary proceedings.

- Bernama