'Easier to handle school kids', deputy speaker bemoans MPs' conduct

PARLIAMENT | Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker Ramli Mohd Nor today rebuked parliamentarians following a commotion involving RSN Rayer (Harapan-Jelutong), Chong Zhemin (Harapan-Kampar) and Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang) in the august house.

“Sit down, YB, please be quiet. The time for this session is limited, okay? We want to finish discussing this committee matter.

“Alright, Allahuakbar, it’s easier to handle schoolchildren,” he said.

The war of words began after Rayer raised a standing order, wanting to know the Dewan Rakyat’s decision on Awang’s accusation that RM94 million was found at a former minister’s house earlier this month.

He said the matter should addressed urgently as the issue has been raised outside of the Dewan Rakyat and warned it could set a precedent for lawmakers to have a “free-for-all” session in the house.

“So, I would like to ask the honourable speaker, what will be done to YB Pendang, who is present in the house and not ashamed after making a serious accusation?” he asked.

Ramli (above) then had a brief discussion with the Dewan Rakyat secretary before announcing that a decision would be made soon.

“That’s all I can say,” he said.

Unparliamentary remark

Awang then stood up and called Rayer “bodoh” (stupid) for not being appointed to any government post.

“I’ve already complied with the speaker’s instructions, he (Rayer) wants to be the speaker, but he’s not qualified, stupid,” Awang said.

Irate, Chong stood up to defend Rayer and called upon Awang to retract the word.

“Enough, Pendang, retract the word ‘stupid’, you’ve just made an accusation against the house, one that is misleading the house now,” he stated.

The lawmakers continued to trade barbs even after Ramli muted their microphones.

Aggravated by their behaviour, Ramli told members of the house to look at the children seated at the spectator section and reflect on themselves.

“Please look behind you, our children. Let’s regroup and continue the proceedings of the house,” he said.

Rayer stood up again and reiterated that he respected Ramli’s decision and pointed out that Awang had disrespected the Dewan Rakyat by uttering an offensive word.

Ramli then advised Awang to retract the word, which the PAS MP complied.

On Nov 6, Dewan Rakyat speaker Johari Abdul requested that Pendang MP provide evidence regarding his claim that RM94 million was found at the premises of a former minister or tender an apology.

He issued this directive after Rayer tabled a motion to refer Awang to the Parliamentary Rights and Privileges Committee over the remark.

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