THE Perak legislative assembly today unanimously passed an amendment to the state constitution to enable the anti-party hopping enactment to be implemented in the state to prevent elected representatives from switching political parties.

The motion for the proposed amendment was tabled by Menteri Besar Saarani Mohamad (Kota Tampan-BN) and seconded by Azman Noh (Pengkalan Baharu-BN).

Six assemblymen debated on it. Nga Kor Ming (Kepayang-PH) was not present due to his duties as the minister of local government development.

Saarani, when winding up the debate, said the law will strengthen the people’s faith in democracy.

“It can protect the rights of the people who have voted and have high trust in politicians during the election process, in addition to improving the integrity of the elected representatives to provide the best service to the constituents in their areas,” he said.

Saarani said history has proved that party hopping is not only a form of violation of democratic practices but also inhibits the function of a government and can even lead to its collapse.

Economic and social stability can only be achieved when there is political stability, he said.

The state assembly adjourned sine die. – Bernama, December 29, 2022.