Shouting match in Parliament following ‘apartheid’ comment

KUALA LUMPUR: Tensions flared in the Dewan Rakyat after an Opposition MP compared the allocation of constituency funds to an “apartheid” policy.

The heated exchange broke out on Wednesday (Nov 5) after Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (PN–Arau) had expressed his dissatisfaction over what he claimed was the continued denial of allocations to opposition MPs, saying this showed Parliament had “failed as an institution”.

“The Parliament is supposed to be an independent, world-class legislative institution.

“But it’s not even functioning properly here.. I support shutting down this Parliament’s services. It was closed before, then reopened,” he said while debating the Supply Bill 2026 at the committee stage.

RSN Rayer (PH–Jelutong) then stood up, accusing Shahidan of being disrespectful and making inappropriate comments.

“He (Shahidan) said this Parliament has no ‘standard’.

“You are an MP. If you wish to debate and express dissatisfaction, do so, but don’t demean the dignity of this Parliament.

“Shame on you, Arau,” he said.

A shouting match ensued, but their microphones were muted by the Speaker.

Later, Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor issued a stern warning to all MPs after observing several incidents during recent sittings that allegedly involved disruptions and inappropriate behaviour.

“YBs, I have been monitoring the proceedings and found there have been far too many unnecessary interruptions.

“Please take note of these two rules — first, Standing Order 7(4) and Standing Order 37(2).

“If any MP disobeys my instructions, I will proceed to make a charge immediately. If the response is unsatisfactory, I will deliver a ruling right after obtaining an explanation,” he said.