Opposition leadership dispute sparks pandemonium in Dewan Rakyat

PROCEEDINGS in the Dewan Rakyat briefly turned tense on Monday after allegations were raised suggesting that changes to the Opposition Leader position were the result of internal disputes between PAS and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu).

The commotion began when Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu), who is also the Opposition Chief Whip, stood to pose a question during oral question time and clarified that Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin is a member of a registered political party and not an independent Member of Parliament.

Takiyuddin stressed that Hamzah’s position as Opposition Leader did not contravene Article 49A of the Federal Constitution.

However, Khoo Poay Tiong (PH-Kota Melaka) interjected, claiming that the changes in the Opposition leadership reflected internal conflict between PAS and Bersatu.

"The Opposition Leader suddenly changed like that, it is a dispute between PAS and Bersatu.

"PAS is bullying Bersatu, that is why the Opposition Leader keeps changing. There is no standard, the Opposition is not professional at all," Khoo said.

The remarks prompted objections from several opposition MPs, including Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki (PN-Parit Buntar), who urged Khoo to refrain from continuing the allegations, noting that clarification had already been provided by the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Johari Abdul.

During the exchange, PAS lawmaker Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) also interjected, saying "Who are you? (lu siapa)", before order was eventually restored in the House.

The Speaker later clarified that he had reviewed all relevant documentation and official notifications regarding the Opposition leadership arrangement.

“Maybe Kota Melaka came late. I have already explained, all documentation has been thoroughly examined and I confirm that Larut is the Leader of the Opposition. There is no further issue,” he said.

Earlier, Johari had confirmed that Hamzah Zainudin had resumed his role as Leader of the Opposition in the Dewan Rakyat effective June 18. - June 22, 2026