SHAH ALAM – Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali (Bukit Antarabangsa-Perikatan Nasional) is one of the state lawmakers who have yet to attend a session in the current Selangor assembly sitting that started on November 23.
In addressing the low attendance today, state speaker Ng Suee Lim singled out former Selangor menteri besar Azmin and Harumaini Omar (Batang Kali-Pejuang) who both have been missing in action since the sitting started.
“Only 70% out of the 56 representatives attended the current sitting, making it one of the lowest turnouts ever recorded at the state legislative assembly,” Ng told reporters at the sidelines here today.
Selangor lawmakers’ poor attendance also compelled Ng to address the issue of whether state executive councillors (exco) should answer written questions submitted by absent assemblymen during the sitting.
He stated that assemblymen must be present to field questions to exco members.
“I won’t allow exco members to answer questions put forward by absent assemblymen despite those present requesting for the questions to be answered.
“I would like to point out that I don’t want to set a precedent for anyone (assemblymen) to skip the state assembly. If they have any questions for the exco members they must be present.”
After that, Datuk Teng Chang Khim (Sg Pinang-Pakatan Harapan) (PH) proposed to adjourn the session until around 6pm and his motion was supported by Rodziah Ismail (Batu Tiga-PH).
Ng also confirmed that there has been no communication from Azmin and Harumaini about their absence since last week.
“I haven’t received any letter, text message or phone call from either. I am still waiting for their explanation.”
Ng added that anyone who did not attend the sessions should write a letter requesting leave.
“It is a formality and they should attend the assembly sitting while they are still assemblymen since this is their primary responsibility as elected representatives, other than serving their constituents.” – The Vibes, November 29, 2022
