KUALA LUMPUR – Lawmakers in the Dewan Rakyat were left dumbfounded after an opposition MP contended that the lower House could potentially be the target of spies seeking to uncover information on the nation.
While debating amendments to the Penal Code to criminalise stalking, Datuk Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah (Langkawi-PN) voiced his concern over the “security” of matters discussed in the august House, to the bemusement of other MPs who appeared perplexed at the assertion.
“What kind of security does this House have to prevent what we say from being spied on? What laws ensure our protection?
“There could be companies hiring consultants to stalk (lawmakers) speaking and debating. How safe is our Parliament WiFi?” he asked.
In response, Chong Zhemin (Kampar-PH) pointed out that Suhaimi’s arguments are “nonsensical” as Parliament proceedings are streamed online on various platforms for anyone to view.
“Don’t talk nonsense. We are live now. The whole world can watch us,” Chong said.
Suhaimi subsequently doubled down, saying: “I know there is a livestream, but there are some things we (lawmakers) talk about that should not be known (by the public), like when we talk about issues involving foreign nations.
“How can we be certain that ministers who use their handphones in their offices at Parliament are not being stalked?” he added.
Earlier during his debate, Suhaimi recalled how he had attended a briefing in the Johor assembly while he served as a senator, noting that he had issued similar queries then.
“I asked them about the security of this hall since we are too close to Singapore. They couldn’t answer me.” – The Vibes, March 29, 2023
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