PARLIAMENT Nurul Izzah Anwar (PKR-Lembah Pantai) has been referred to Parliament's Rights and Privileges Committee for meeting with self-styled Sulu princess Jacel Kiram.

This was despite an emotional defence by Nurul Izzah, who was almost on the verge of tears while reading out her statement to the House.

The motion to refer her to the committee was passed in a bloc vote, with 105 in favour and 77 against.

The motion was tabled by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Azalina Othman Said.

Earlier in her statement during the debate, she expressed regret for hurting the feelings of Sabahans.

"I regret and apologise to the victims of the Lahad Datu tragedy – Sabahans and Malaysians – who were angered by the photo (of me and Jacel)," she said, her voice cracking with emotion.

"Seven years ago, I took an oath to protect this country we love, the Federal Constitution, and the people from any negative elements from outside or within," she said, adding that she is willing to work with the government to ensure Sabah's security.

Raime Unggi (BN-Tenom), however, said Nurul Izzah's emotional display was just an act.

"This is just pretending, an act. [...] She has no patriotism or love for the country," Raime said.

Things got heated when Raime called the Nurul Izzah a hypocrite, and accused her of working with the nation's enemies.

Deputy speaker Ismail Mohamad Said threatened to kick out both BN and opposition MPs when the fighting did not subside, but did not carry out his threat.

He also reminded the MPs to focus on the act of the MP taking the photo with Jacel, and not make wild allegations.

As the debate progressed, at least two BN lawmakers however twisted the focus of the debate onto jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim.

Noh Omar (BN-Tanjong Karang) and Azeez Abdul Rahim (BN-Baling) both said that taking a photo with Jacel was not the main issue.

"What we are mad about is that there were 'Free Anwar' placards," Azeez said.

Gobind Singh Deo (DAP-Puchong) quickly caught on to this and fired back.

"This is an abuse of parliamentary process, (you are making) this about Anwar (not Sabah)," Gobind said.

The debate went on until 1PM, after which the opposition called for a bloc vote, in which they were defeated.

Met by reporters at the Parliament lobby later, Nurul Izzah said she accepted the outcome.

"I don't agree with it, I accept the decision. I have nothing to hide," she said.