Kuala Lumpur: The Opposition’s decision to abstain from voting on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 at Dewan Rakyat has raised concerns over their commitment to the independence of the Parliament. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil criticized the 57 Opposition MPs who chose not to participate in the vote, highlighting their lack of support for efforts aimed at bolstering Parliament as an independent institution.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi expressed his disappointment at a media conference held at the Parliament building. He emphasized the importance of the proposed positions of the Speakers of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara in the Parliamentary Service Council, describing it as a crucial step toward strengthening Parliament. Fahmi accused the Opposition of failing to contribute constructively to the process, noting their debates often deviated from the main issues at hand.

The bill successfully passed with the support of 148 MPs during both the second and third readings, despite 17 MPs being absent and 57 abstaining. Fahmi, who also serves as the MADANI Government spokesman, expressed gratitude to those who backed the bill, calling it a historic moment for the democratization of Malaysia’s parliamentary institution.

Fahmi extended his appreciation to the 148 MPs who voted in favor of the constitutional amendment, which facilitates the inclusion of the Speakers of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara in the soon-to-be-established Parliamentary Services Council. He underscored the significance of the bill, stating it represented a meaningful step forward for the Malaysian Parliament.