Kuala Lampur:Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said clarified that while Parliament's administrative autonomy is essential, it must not be misunderstood as freedom from accountability. She emphasized that Parliament is not above the Federal Constitution, and its officials must adhere to professional standards. The management of public funds requires appropriate controls.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina highlighted that the effectiveness of the Parliamentary Service Act 2025 (Act 869) should be measured by how Parliament evolves to become more professional, effective, transparent, and trusted. This involves producing quality legislation and strengthening governance, rather than simply establishing a new administrative framework.

She elaborated that institutional autonomy should enhance Parliament's ability to scrutinize bills, government policies, and public expenditure more thoroughly, ultimately benefiting the public. Azalina stressed that Parliament is independent of the government and political parties, and its services must impartially support both government and opposition Members of Parliament.

A professional parliamentary service, according to Azalina, must maintain political neutrality, with its loyalty to the institution of Parliament and the Constitution rather than any political coalition. She advocated for a government that welcomes a stronger Parliament, as it can lead to better legislation and policy formulation, as well as improved management of public funds.

Azalina also mentioned that the reform should be resilient enough to endure beyond changes in government, political coalitions, and the turnover of Members of Parliament. Act 869, along with related constitutional amendments, came into effect on October 1, following more than three decades since the repeal of the Parliamentary Service Act 1963 in 1992.