KUALA LUMPUR – Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) have justified their non-attendance during the morning session of the Dewan Rakyat, citing their participation in the Save Syariah Movement at the Palace of Justice grounds in Putrajaya.
In explaining their absence, opposition MPs emphasized their commitment to supporting the Save Syariah Movement, signaling their engagement with matters of significance outside the parliamentary session.
The Palace of Justice in Putrajaya served as the focal point for their activities, reflecting their dedication to advocating for and participating in the movement.
The decision to prioritize the Save Syariah Movement underscores the opposition MPs’ commitment to its cause and their belief in the importance of engaging with the public on issues related to syariah law.
Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas), expressed dissatisfaction with the accusation that the opposition had skipped the Parliament session. In response, he countered by questioning whether the absence of certain full ministers could also be characterized as truancy.
“Can we say that all ministers who are not present (all except the health minister) are absent at this time?” he said when interrupting Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal’s (PN-Bukit Gantang) debate.
Shahidan Kassim (PN-Arau) went a step further, issuing a warning that he would invoke Standing Orders under 36(12) against those emphasizing the absence of PN MPs. This section stipulates that any member who makes statements that mislead the house is considered in contempt of the house and can be referred to the Committee of Privileges for the offense.
Mohd Isam Mohd Isa (BN-Tampin) had stood up earlier in the morning to interrupt and inform the speaker that no opposition MP was present at the oral question session.
