We regret the action of Dewan Rakyat Speaker, Tan Sri Azhar Azizan Harun, denying the motion to debate the flood issue in Parliament.
Malaysia practices parliamentary democracy making Parliament the most important institution in the country which upholds the principles of democracy. The Dewan Rakyat Speaker as the Administrative Head of Parliament has a duty to ensure that the essence of democracy is upheld.
The major floods affecting many states in the country are labeled as one of the most devastating floods in recent memory. The greatest floods in the country hit eight states, particularly Selangor and Pahang, killing at least 20 people and displacing over 60,000 people.
It is important that matters of public interest be at the forefront of parliamentary discussions. In a parliamentary democracy, Parliament embodies the will of the people and, therefore must oversee matters of urgent public importance.
We call for the Malaysian Parliament to uphold the fundamental principle of democracy and fulfill its responsibility as the nation’s representative.
Bait Al-Amanah
22nd December 2021