Mechanism of the government is divided into two namely:

  • The Dewan Negara (House of Senates) – 70 members
  • The Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) – 222 members

The Dewan Rakyat usually commands more publicity because there are usually a lot of sensational debates.

The talk was focused on the Dewan Negara (Upper House) which is a body of 70 qualified legislators as provided for in the constitution:

  • 26 elected (Each state elects 2)
  • 40 appointed by the Yang Dipertuan Agong
  • 2 from KLFT
  • 1 from Putrajaya
  • 1 from Labuan

Senators speak on behalf of communities or interest groups and they tend to behave more maturely and speak on issues more rationally through cooperation and tacit understanding.

Function of senator:

  • Legislation
  • Motions

Very unfortunately, many Members of Parliament (MP) are not bothered or interested in laws as they are very tedious and most have got the wrong concept of being a Member of Parliament. Instead at most times, they tend to concentrate more on daily people’s problems and trivial matters.

105 out of 222 MPs are in the executive function and so making this group too influential and powerful. Many times, it is difficult for the legislators to challenge the executives. In fact, it has also become a concern as the executives are influencing the integrity of the judiciary. The Federal Government Administration comprising Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Parliament Secretaries as well as the State Government.

It’s very difficult to enact private members’ bills compared between Malaysia and other countries. Hence some YB have their fair share of grievances such as ratification of certain treaties and agreements that they worry about. Many times, the consultative framework is not in place and the realities to be faced in politics. Please be encouraged to visit the Parliament to get a better understanding on how the government works.

There are issues and lamented on the current development of the roles of legislators particularly those who are in the executive level. Instead of being officers to discuss on laws but most merely perform their roles blandly.

Generally, there are more quality debates and more public expression on issues nowadays. In fact, what was the kopi shop topic now find its way through the alternative medias.

Nevertheless, Malaysia’s society is still not ready for the conscience vote to be implemented and hence the need for the application of the whip.