THE Bersih Steering Committee has welcomed the recent amendments to the Standing Orders of the Dewan Rakyat as a positive step toward a more mature and effective parliamentary democracy in Malaysia.
However, the group insists that further reforms are essential to strengthen the institution’s checks and balances.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Bersih said several areas still require attention, particularly the expansion of parliamentary committees to address thematic and institutional matters more comprehensively.
“For example, the scrutiny of annual budget allocations and the appointment process for key public positions should be taken into account,” it said.
Bersih also called for greater powers and transparency within existing parliamentary select committees, noting that the latest amendments did not go far enough in empowering them.
“The powers of the Select Committees (JKP) should be elevated accordingly, including the ability to issue subpoenas and conduct open inquiries.
“At the same time, there should be no obstacles to live broadcasts of proceedings, in line with current practice in the Main Chamber and Special Chambers,” it said.
The group also highlighted the need to empower the opposition and backbench MPs, stressing that non-government parliamentary business is often sidelined in favour of government-led matters.
“Often, business by non-ministerial MPs, such as private members’ motions and bills, is treated as secondary compared to government matters listed in the Order Paper,” Bersih stated.
On Tuesday, the Dewan Rakyat passed the amendments to the Standing Orders without debate, following a decision by the Standing Orders Committee during its meeting on 23 July 2025.
The amendments, the first since 2023, mark a continuation of the broader parliamentary reform agenda, which also includes the reintroduction of the Parliamentary Services Act (PSA) passed earlier this year.
Among the most significant changes is the elevation of ministerial-based Special Select Committees (JKPK) from temporary or ad hoc bodies to permanent standing committees, under Standing Order 80B.
Bersih has urged the government and all Members of Parliament to treat the amendments as a catalyst for deeper and more meaningful reforms in line with the increased autonomy envisioned under the PSA.
“Bersih calls on Chief Ministers, Premiers, and State Assembly Speakers to also embrace these legislative reforms at the state level, to prevent a significant gap between federal and state institutions in efforts to enhance this vital institution,” the group said.
“Continued reform will ensure that the Malaysian Parliament becomes a truly independent and transparent institution,” it added. - August 14, 2025
