Kuala Lumpur: The government has announced its decision to appoint two opposition representatives to the Parliamentary Services Council as part of an initiative to enhance the council’s membership. This decision includes the appointment of two senators and four members of Parliament (MPs) to the council.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that these appointments would be formalized by the Select Committee, contingent upon the passage of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat. Anwar explained that improvements to the council’s membership could be achieved using Standing Order 76 of the Dewan Rakyat, as advised by legal advisors, to ensure both independence and diverse representation within the council.
He further elaborated that the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025, which seeks to amend the Federal Constitution, represents a significant step in reinforcing the doctrine of separation of powers. This action aims to ensure Parliament operates as an independent legislative body. Anwar emphasized that this reform had been anticipated for over three decades and signifies a decisive move by the MADANI Government to shape the future of Malaysia’s democratic institutions.
Anwar highlighted the importance of the separation of powers, stating that it maintains balance, upholds justice, preserves freedom, and prevents the abuse of power. He detailed Malaysia’s historical practice of this doctrine since its independence in 1957, which has been a fundamental component of the nation’s administrative framework.
The Prime Minister recounted the history of the Parliamentary Services Act 1963, which provided Parliament with autonomous powers in administration, human resources, and finance. However, this autonomy was diminished following the 1992 amendment to the Federal Constitution, which abolished the Parliamentary Services established by the 1963 Act.
Anwar underscored that the current legislative efforts aim to restore Parliament’s autonomy. The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Parliamentary Services Bill 2025 are intended to reestablish Parliament as an independent and sovereign institution, thereby enabling it to effectively fulfill its responsibilities, protect the public interest, and ensure administrative balance.
He concluded by asserting that the separation of powers is a cornerstone of democracy and a symbol of an equitable administrative system. The proposed Bills are viewed as a pivotal achievement in the government’s institutional reform agenda.