Ismail Sabri thanks MPs for their support

PETALING JAYA: After the historic anti-party hopping Bill was passed almost unanimously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob expressed his gratitude to MPs.

In a statement, he also thanked the 54 MPs who took part in the debate and gave their views on the Bill, saying it was a sign of political maturity.

“I would like to thank all MPs – from the Government, the Opposition or independent bloc – who have made history today.

“This Bill was achieved after various engagement sessions and views and through a bipartisan Special Select Committee involving representatives of the main parties in the Dewan Rakyat,” the Bera MP said, adding that the Bill would ensure the long-term political stability of the country.

The constitutional amendments, which were passed yesterday, are likely to become law before the next general election is called.

The Bill required a two-thirds majority, or 148 votes, but it was approved by all 209 MPs present.

Another 11 MPs were absent.

Ismail Sabri had tabled the Bill on Wednesday for a second reading.

He said the anti-hopping law sends a clear message to all MPs to hold on to the principles of the political parties they represent and to uphold the mandate and confidence bestowed upon them by voters.

Meanwhile, also passed by voice vote was the Special Parliamentary Select Committee report on the proposed amendments, which was also tabled in the House on Wednesday.