KUALA LUMPUR – Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Azhar Azizan Harun has shut down lawmakers’ call to debate issues regarding the massive floods that hit several states in the peninsula, amid ongoing rescue efforts in badly hit areas such as Taman Sri Muda in Shah Alam, Hulu Langat and Klang.
His attempt to quell demands for debate was met with more shouting as he explained that there is another matter scheduled for debate – proposed amendments to the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342).
He added that following the rules of the House, the minister will have to take the initiative to provide an explanation on the matter and give a notice to the speaker.
“I don’t have the power to allow the jump from one issue to another.”
However, this prompted more shouting from the opposition bloc, causing a commotion in the lower house.
“Enough, sit down,” Azhar told MPs.
Earlier, Lim Guan Eng (Bagan-PH) attempted to raise the issue.
Citing Standing Order 14(1)(i), he demanded the relevant minister to provide an explanation for the floods that left tens of thousands stranded.
“I hope there is a minister here in charge of the drainage systems to give answers on the steps, assistance, and efforts taken to ensure swift recovery.”
From the government bloc, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan (Pontian-BN) questioned how soon the government plans to funnel the RM1,000 assistance to each family affected by the floods.
However, Mohamad Sabu (Kota Raja-PH) interjected, saying the most pressing matter at the moment is not financial assistance, but stepping up rescue efforts.
“The question here is not financial assistance. Where are the boats from the army, fire department, and police?
“It was fishermen who came to offer their boats. But they were not suited for flood rescue operations.”
This prompted Datuk Seri Azizah Mohd Dun (Beaufort-Bersatu) to shout across the aisle, saying that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri (Bera-BN) has already offered RM100 million and that parliamentarians should be the ones to offer their assistance.
“MPs should offer help, like us who are used to doing so when there are floods,” she said.
Later, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin (Rembau-BN) asked for a postponement for the second and third reading of Act 342.
The Dewan Rakyat has been adjourned. – The Vibes, December 20, 2021
