Govt mulls proposal to hold virtual Parliament sitting

The government is mulling over the proposal to hold the Dewan Rakyat sitting virtually as a measure to curb the spread of Covid-19, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law) Takiyuddin Hassan said.

Although the matter was not provided for in the Dewan Rakyat Standing Order, it could be done by simply amending the Standing Order.

“We are looking into this and Insya-Allah (God willing), it can be done,” he said at the Parliament sitting today.

Earlier, Takiyuddin (above) moved a motion to stop the enactment of several Standing Orders following the adjustments made for the current sitting of the august House as part of measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 and to ensure that the Dewan Rakyat sitting can be held safely.

He was interjected by Fuziah Salleh (Harapan-Kuantan) who wanted an explanation on whether or not a Bill should be passed if the Parliament sitting is held virtually.

Takiyuddin had earlier moved a motion for the Dewan Rakyat sitting to be held from 10am to 2pm from Nov 9 to 15, which was seconded by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Special Functions) Mohd Redzuan Md Yusof.

On the question from Khalid Samad (Harapan-Shah Alam) on whether the adjustments would still apply if the number of Covid-19 cases in the country showed a decline and the sitting could be held in its usual way, he said the motion could be amended at any time.

“The motion can be amended, or we can move a new motion upon consensus. We have the concept of musyuwarah (consultation), our chief whips will be consulted,” he added.

- Bernama 

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