KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has passed his first real test as prime minister after the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) was approved in the Dewan Rakyat today without any real opposition.
The motion was put up for a simple voice vote by Speaker Datuk Azhar Azizan Harun after the winding-up speeches by all ministries, with overwhelming support.
Ismail Sabri had tabled the 12MP on September 27, followed by debates by scores of MPs. Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed (Jeli-BN) was the last minister to speak today.
Prior to today, the only other motion to see a vote was on the motion of thanks on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s address when opening the current Parliament sitting on May 18.
Then, the motion was similarly passed after more MPs voiced support.
However, the vote on 12MP was deemed to be the first major test for Ismail Sabri, who was previously under heavy pressure to prove his legitimacy as prime minister, especially with no proper vote of confidence held in the lower house.
While there have been calls initially to have his legitimacy tested in the Dewan, the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the government and Pakatan Harapan (PH) has ensured that this does not take place.
The opposition has given its commitment to support Ismail Sabri, granted he pushes for the reforms demanded by them, which are included in the MoU.
The lack of opposition during the voice vote today shows Ismail Sabri has the backing of the MPs – for now.
Another consideration that may have been taken leading to the support of the 12MP is to ensure efforts to revive the economy and assist the rakyat in the next five years, following a hard-hit pandemic year, are implemented without hiccups.
The current sitting continues on Monday before adjourning on Tuesday, with priority given to government bills. – The Vibes, October 7, 2021
