KUALA LUMPUR: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul has given Kota Baru MP Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan until Thursday (Oct 22) to withdraw controversial remarks made during a previous sitting, following a complaint by RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong).
Johari said he had reviewed the Hansard before making his decision, adding that Takiyuddin could withdraw the remarks either in the House or in writing.
"If the withdrawal does not take place, Jelutong may proceed with a motion," he said when the august House resumed debate on the Supply Bill 2027 on Wednesday (Oct 21).
Johari said any motion filed by Rayer would be referred to the relevant parliamentary committee for consideration and possible action.
The Speaker’s ruling triggered a brief exchange with Datuk Awang Solahuddin Hashim (PN-Pendang), who sought to explain his interpretation of the Hansard and said the remarks in question had been made generally and were not directed at any individual.
However, Johari declined to allow further debate on the matter, saying he had already made a decision under Standing Order 99.
"I do not want assumptions. I want facts. The Hansard is before me," he said.
Johari said reopening the matter in the House would lead to a wider argument and distract from the day’s proceedings, including the ongoing debate on Budget 2027.
He urged MPs to respect his ruling and said the House should not be used for political disputes.
"If Kota Baru does not wish to withdraw, Jelutong can file a motion. The matter will then be brought to the committee, which will consider it and decide on the appropriate action," he said.
The issue arose during the Budget 2027 debate on Monday (Oct 19), when Takiyuddin was alleged to have used the term "munafik", or hypocrite, in reference to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Rayer objected under Standing Order 36(1), while Johari cautioned MPs to be careful when using religious terms that could be misunderstood or cause unease, particularly among non-Muslims.
He said such language could lead to prolonged debate and distract the House from matters affecting the people.
