THE use of the Arabic term “waad”, meaning promise, in Budget 2027 sparked a heated exchange between Opposition chief whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan and a government backbencher.
The incident occurred after Takiyuddin (PN-Kota Baru) linked a hadith to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2027 speech, during which the term “waad” was used prominently.
“The hadith states that whoever frequently makes promises but often breaks them displays one of the signs of a person who may be considered a ‘munafik’ or hypocrite, an extremely reprehensible trait in the teachings of Islam.”
Takiyuddin’s remarks drew an immediate objection from RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong), who invoked Standing Order 36(1), questioning the use of language he considered unparliamentary.
“Such a word is being used in reference to the Prime Minister? Are we going to allow that word to be used and simply let it pass? Everyone heard it,” Rayer said when interjecting.
A heated exchange ensued, with Takiyuddin accusing Rayer of using the interruption to cut into his allotted debate time.
Deputy Speaker Alice Lau sought to defuse the situation by directing Rayer to submit a motion to the Dewan Rakyat Speaker’s office outlining his objection.
However, Rayer continued to interject, prompting Takiyuddin to remind him of Lau’s ruling.
The exchange eventually subsided, allowing Takiyuddin to continue his debate.
Later, while chairing the proceedings, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul reminded lawmakers to be cautious when using religious terms that could be misunderstood by those unfamiliar with their meanings.
