Mind your language: Potty-mouthed Malaysian MPs face $300 fines, warns Speaker
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A special committee will be formed to monitor the behaviour of MPs in Parliament.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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PETALING JAYA - Potty-mouthed Malaysian MPs using racist, sexist or derogatory terms in Parliament could face a fine of RM1,000 (S$310) alongside suspensions, said Lower House Speaker Johari Abdul.
He said these were some of the mooted parliamentary reforms, given how certain MPs had used such terms shamelessly – with the slurs even targeted towards the Speaker, Deputy Speaker and other MPs.
“A special committee will be formed to monitor the behaviour of MPs in Parliament, with guidelines also being drawn up.
“At present, the provision to impose a fine of RM1,000 on MPs already exists in the Houses of Parliament (Privileges and Powers) Act 1952, but it has never been applied.
“Those found violating the Act could also be suspended for up to six months, although this was rarely used by previous Speakers,” he told Malay daily Berita Harian.
Datuk Johari said the matter had also been discussed with Upper House Speaker Rais Yatim, adding that such committees were formed in many other countries.
“In fact, we are even suggesting to increase the fines through amendments of the Act,” he said.
Other reforms proposed by Mr Johari include Parliament sessions being extended to 8.30pm, and that MPs no longer be required to wear ties during parliamentary sittings.
He also described Parliament sessions that dragged on into the night or even until dawn as unproductive, except for urgent matters such as the budget.
Mr Johari called on MPs to reduce politicking in Parliament and instead focus on the people.
“We expect MPs with quality as they represent the people. If they want to speak about politics, do it outside the hall,” he added.
THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
