Selangor Speaker reprimands reps for tardiness

SELANGOR lawmakers were reprimanded by Speaker Ng Suee Lim for their tardiness in attending the state legislative assembly sitting this round, particularly during the morning question-and-answer sessions.

“While their performances were satisfactory, I am disappointed that many arrived late in the morning, such as around 10.30am or 11am when the assembly session starts at 10am,” he said.

“A total of 14 questions were skipped on Monday (Dec 5) and eight skipped on Tuesday (Dec 6) because the assemblymen who asked the questions were not present in the hall.

“Besides needing to be more disciplined and punctual, the assemblymen should be mindful of the fact that the officers and civil servants who prepared the answers took the time and effort to do so ahead of the assembly session.”

Ng praised Hulu Kelang assemblyman Saari Sungib for his diligence, pointing out that he was never late and always made an effort to participate throughout the nine-day session held at the Selangor assembly building in Shah Alam.

“As a senior state lawmaker, Saari should be seated at the front (opposite the Speaker’s seat). But because of his limited mobility, his seat was moved to the back so it would be easier for him to move around,” said Ng.

“The assembly session this time post 15th General Election appears more harmonious and friendly. It could be seen as a unity effort by the state lawmakers, in line with the unity government at the federal level.”

He also pointed out that this was the first time Selangor had five assemblymen who had won seats at the parliamentary level (during GE15).

They are: Sungai Tua assemblyman Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari (Gombak), Batu Tiga assemblyman Rodziah Ismail (Ampang), Kota Kemuning assemblyman V. Ganabatirau (Klang), Taman Templer assemblyman Mohd Sany Hamzan (Hulu Langat) and Sijangkang assemblyman Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi (Kuala Langat).

“There may be some changes in terms of the assemblymen's seating arrangements (in the Selangor assembly building) at the next session, depending on the discussions led by Amirudin Shari as the Selangor Pakatan Harapan chairman,” said Ng.

“There is a possibility of another session held next year (before the Selangor assembly is dissolved to make way for state elections), depending on the Mentri Besar.”

Meanwhile, Ng said five Bills and eight proposals were passed this round.

The five Bills are: Laws of the Constitution of Selangor Enactment (Amendment) 2022, Selangor Water Management Authority (Luas) Enactment (Amendment) 2022, Administrative Members and Members of State Council (Remuneration) Enactment (Amendment) 2022, Supply Enactment 2023 and Royal Provisions Enactment (Amendment) 2022.

The Selangor legislative assembly adjourned sine die.