KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat proceedings came to a brief halt on Wednesday (March 6) due to a lack of quorum during the MPs' speeches on the motion of thanks on the royal address.
This is the first time it has happened since the first meeting of the year commenced on Feb 26.
It came about when Kalam Salan (PN-Sabak Bernam) raised the matter after Lumut MP Commander Nordin Ahmad Ismail concluded his speech.
Citing Standing Orders, Kalam said there were only 15 MPs in the House at the time.
“Please request those outside to come in so that the proceedings can continue,” he said.
Deputy Speaker Alice Lau then ordered for the bell to be rung.
Under Standing Order 13, there must be at least 26 MPs in the 222-seat Dewan Rakyat for proceedings to be held.
The proceedings then resumed.
There had been previous incidents of a lack of quorum in the Dewan Rakyat last year.
