SHAH ALAM: Speculation of a possible by-election in Selangor has been put to rest, with Speaker Lau Weng San confirming that no state assemblyman will lose his or her seat.
He said the review, conducted as of Aug 10, covered all assemblymen and found no grounds for any of them to vacate their seats.
“The review covered all parties. The checks were comprehensive, examined all aspects of the matter and involved all assemblymen,” Lau said at a press conference on the sidelines of the Selangor State Assembly sitting here on Thursday (Aug 13).
Earlier this month, there was speculation that a by-election could be held in Selangor following a bankruptcy order against a state assemblyman.
However, the High Court later set aside the order.
On assemblymen who are frequently absent from state assembly sittings, Lau said a list would be published on social media.
“Assemblymen seeking leave should submit written letters. For example, the Bandar Baru Klang representative had requested leave after undergoing surgery and being advised to rest for a week.
“In general, we have between three and five absentees at each sitting. Although they are not legally required to inform the secretariat, they must remember that by not attending, they miss the opportunity to raise questions, receive government replies, make proposals and hear important updates during winding-up speeches,” he said.
Lau added that state executive councillors could also choose not to address questions raised by absent assemblymen during winding-up sessions to save time for those present.
He urged assemblymen to prioritise attendance, noting that the state assembly meets only about three times a year, with each meeting lasting around two weeks or less.
“Constituency events, meetings and other non-urgent appointments should be scheduled so that they do not clash with assembly meetings. Exceptions, such as deaths requiring immediate burial, are understandable.
“Even if members arrive late, they are still considered present if they attend part of the meeting,” he said.
Lau also confirmed that assemblymen receive an attendance allowance of RM200 for the morning session and RM150 for the afternoon session.
