The Malaysian Insight

DE facto law minister Takiyuddin Hassan came under heavy fire in Parliament today for dodging questions on the revocation of the emergency ordinances, specifically if the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had given his consent.

Takiyuddin, however, evaded the question, saying he was bound by a ruling by Dewan Rakyat Speaker Azhar Azizan Harun yesterday to answer such questions on Monday.

“My answer to all of you is that I will be giving an answer this Monday. There is a procedure in the house, and I have been allowed by the speaker to clarify on (next) Monday,” he said.

The PAS lawmaker caused a stir yesterday when he announced that the government had cancelled the ordinances that were passed during the emergency, effective July 21.

He said the government had also decided not to advise the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to issue a new declaration when this one expires on August 1.

Takiyuddin’s answer today riled up opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, who told the Dewan Rakyat that Takiyuddin could have saved time if he just apologised for his “mistake” in making the announcement yesterday.

“The question from the opposition is very specific, has the king been informed about the revocation.

“If the king has not been told, just tell us that you are sorry and that the cabinet will meet the king to inform his Majesty on this matter.

“Admit that you are wrong and do not lie in Parliament,” said Anwar sternly.

Puchong MP Gobind Singh Deo cited a standing order where he said a minister must provide an answer on the same day in the Dewan Rakyat. 

“There is a provision for the minister to answer it now, today. Has the matter been consented to by the king? Only the king can revoke or extend the ordinances made during the emergency proclamation,” he added.

Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker Azalina Othman Said attempted to bring the matter to a closure as more opposition MPs heckled Takiyuddin. 

“Since we are a parliamentary democracy, I was informed by the speaker that the law minister will give an explanation on this matter on Monday. That will be done by the government,” Azalina said.

Takiyuddin announced the revocation of the ordinances when responding to opposition MPs, who asked why the government did not table the emergency and its ordinances in Parliament, in accordance with Article 150(3) of the federal constitution. 

“All the six ordinances passed during emergency will be revoked, effective July 21,” he said. 

According to Article 150(3), the emergency and its ordinances must be approved by Parliament. – July 27, 2021.