DEPUTY Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor, has cautioned Members of Parliament to exercise care when raising matters involving documents protected under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) 1972.
While Article 63 of the Federal Constitution grants MPs immunity for statements made during parliamentary proceedings, Ramli warned that disclosure of official documents could still prompt investigations, given that proceedings are broadcast publicly.
“If we speak in the House, we are protected, but outside—if someone from the public lodges a report—the police will investigate. The MP concerned will certainly be called to explain the source of the document,” he said during proceedings in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday.
His comments were in reference to a motion raised by Datuk Ahmad Marzuk Shaary (PN–Pengkalan Chepa) on Monday, calling for action against Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, over a document allegedly classified under the OSA.
Ramli urged MPs to be more cautious when using official documents to support debate, noting that such actions could carry legal implications beyond the confines of Parliament.
He emphasised that MPs must understand the legal ramifications, particularly under Sections 8 and 16 of the OSA 1972, which place the burden of proof on the accused party.
“This means the person accused must prove they are not guilty. So be very careful when dealing with the Official Secrets Act in relation to the motion that was raised,” he said. - August 26, 2025
