THERE is an immediate need for law reform, including an anti-party hopping law, to ensure confidence and good governance in Malaysia.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law) Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said an anti-party hopping law was required to enhance political stability and inspire public confidence in the democratic process.

“Some countries like India, Singapore and the United Kingdom have the anti-party hopping or anti-defector legislation that provides for expulsion or vacating of seats.

Junaidi was making his special ministerial address on “Parliamentary and Legal Reforms Towards Enhancing Governance and Economic Prosperity” at the 2021 Asia Economic and Entrepreneurship Summit which was conducted virtually today. 

“Limiting the prime minister’s term to not more than 10 years is another important reform as it provides reassurance to the people that no one person can stay in office for too long, as well as reducing the possibility of corruption and other malpractices like nepotism and cronyism,” he said.

According to Junaidi, such reform will allow for a change in policy-making and provide an opportunity for fresh ideas while strengthening democracy.

He said the other law reforms will include constitutional amendments in line with the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

His focus as the minister in charge of law will be to look at legislative amendments to the Federal Constitution which will provide clarity to the position of Sabah and Sarawak.

Touching on parliamentary reform, Junaidi said it was important for the Parliamentary Services Act to be re-enacted, allowing full independence for Parliament and ensuring that the august house upholds the separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judiciary. 

Junaidi also said there is a need to amend the House of Parliament (Privileges and Powers) Act 1952 since it can be considered archaic. – Bernama, September 30, 2021.