YESTERDAY, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that a Fixed-term Parliament Act (FTPA) was not a priority for the unity government.

“We have not even obtained any comments from the attorney general. There is no consensus yet among the leaders of the Madani government. There has been a suggestion, we will look at it, but to me, it’s not a priority,” Anwar told reporters after launching the Artificial Intelligence Programme For The People at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).

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Despite other priorities, several political leaders have suggested that a Fixed-term Parliament Act (FTPA) could contribute to strengthening the country’s political stability

Meanwhile, Law and Institutional Reform Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Azalina Othman Said, said that the legal affairs division under the Prime Minister’s Department would conduct a detailed study, including impact assessments, and seek public opinion on the proposed FTPA this year and the findings would be utilised for policy considerations by the cabinet.

“Engagement sessions with stakeholders will also be carried out soon,” Azalina added.

The arguments for and against fixed-term parliament have been presented by Prof Robert Hazell of the Constitution Unit, University College London in a report more than a decade ago.

Let’s share our arguments, thoughts, views, and opinions on the FTPA with the legal affairs division. Azalina can guide us on the process of sharing with the division. – January 17, 2024.

* Hafiz Hassan reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.