KUALA LUMPUR – The Dewan Rakyat witnessed a fiery hour-long debate regarding the tabling and discussion of the 2021 national audit report during today’s parliamentary session.
Lawmakers from Perikatan Nasional (PN) unanimously expressed their disagreement with holding the debate, deeming it unnecessary.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (Kota Baru-PN) initiated the discord by stating that the national audit report had never been subject to debate and that it was the responsibility of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to scrutinise audits and draw conclusions.
Sabah Bersatu chief Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee (Beluran-PN) echoed these sentiments, saying he considered the proposal redundant and advising the government against proceeding with the debate.
PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin (Masjid Tanah-PN) accused the government of undermining the auditing institution.
However, Hassan Abdul Karim (Pasir Gudang-PH) irked PN lawmakers by questioning whether they were afraid, leading to multiple interruptions.
DAP’s R.S.N. Rayer (Jelutong-PH) further inflamed the opposition by asserting their disagreement with the debate, citing leakages during the declared emergency period.
Despite lawmakers’ microphones being switched off and Deputy Speaker Alice Lau ordering silence, the commotion remained audible.
In response to the fracas, Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul stepped in and called for order, before instructing the lawmakers to share their points in an orderly manner.
Hassan proceeded to insist there was nothing wrong with debating the report, as Parliament serves as the highest platform for discussing national finances.
Ultimately, Johari mandated that the report be openly discussed, saying that the public had called for it during his time as an MP.
“I request an open debate on the audit report. Although the PAC has conducted reports and inquiries, not many have been shared with the public,” Johari said.
He further added: “Since we have the PAC chairman and members present, it is their responsibility to take note of what is being said by our colleagues in the Dewan.” – The Vibes, June 6, 2023
