KUALA LUMPUR – Deputy Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Willie Mongin today showed his middle finger to the opposition bloc after his winding-up session, causing an uproar in the Dewan Rakyat.
The bloc vote saw yet another shouting match, stemming from an unresolved argument in the last few minutes of Willie’s (Bersatu-Puncak Borneo) session with Khalid Abdul Samad (PH-Shah Alam) over palm oil and rubber tax issues, which were brought up by Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (independent-Muar).
Just before voting began, Willie was heard telling Khalid that the latter should not think that he is the only intelligent person in the room, and should not underestimate “people”. This was followed by a loud slam on the desk.
Speaker Datuk Azhar Azizan Harun did not pay heed to the spat, and went on to call a bloc vote on a B20 matter.
As there was no decisive voice vote, Teresa Kok (PH-Seputeh) called for a bloc vote.
Azhar asked for the chief enumerators to be accompanied by the heralds to ensure that the voting process is in compliance with the rules of the meeting.
Datuk Shabudin Yahaya (Bersatu-Tasek Gelugor), who made a mistake during a bloc vote yesterday, was not stripped of his responsibility.
When the speaker confirmed that Shabudin will continue to be an enumerator, MPs raised their voices in disapproval.
As the shouting continued, their microphones were switched off, and disgruntled opposition parliamentarians pounded their desks, chanting “pengkhianat” (traitor).
Willie then flipped the bird at the opposition bench as he swivelled in his seat, unfazed.
The clamour continued when Dr Kelvin Yii (PH-Bandar Kuching) brought the matter to Azhar’s attention and asked that action be taken.
After voting was done, R.S.N. Rayer (PH-Jelutong) stood up to point out Willie’s gesture.
“You have allowed Muar (Syed Saddiq) to be called a kid, saying that it is a joke, but this is not a joke. This is serious, ask him to apologise.”
Azhar asked Willie if what was said of him is true.
The lawmaker denied this, saying the opposition was mistaken.
If it did happen, he said, “I am ready to apologise”.
MPs then called for him to own up to his action.
Kasthuri Patto (PH-Batu Kawan) stood up to say Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad (BN-Parit Sulong) saw what happened, and that Willie made the rude gesture twice.
“What a mockery to the august House! Shame on you!” said Kasthuri.
Other lawmakers called for the CCTV footage to be reviewed, but Azhar adjourned proceedings and left. – The Vibes, December 1, 2020
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