FORMER minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law) Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar was today elected the 19th Dewan Negara president today.

Wan Junaidi’s appointment, effective yesterday, is to replace Rais Yatim, whose tenure ended on June 16.

The appointment was made after Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim nominated Wan Junaidi, who is also the sole candidate proposed for the post.

“According to standing order 2(1), I have ensured that he agrees to serve if elected,” said Anwar.

The motion was seconded by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Standing order 2(1) states that every senator who wishes to propose a senator for election as president shall ascertain previously that the senator is willing to serve if elected, and shall notify the secretary of his proposal at least two days before the meeting.

Meanwhile, Nur Jazlan Mohamed has been elected the Dewan Negara deputy president.

The decision to appoint Nur Jazlan was made through a secret ballot since there was more than one candidate proposed for the post.

Wan Junaidi announced Nur Jazlan’s election after the candidate from the government received more votes than another candidate.

“Nur Jazlan Mohamed obtained 43 votes while Razali Idris received 11 votes, and eight members were absent,” he said.

“Therefore, in accordance with standing order 5(2), I hereby announce that Nur Jazlan has been elected the Dewan Negara deputy speaker.”

The motion for Nur Jazlan’s nomination was brought forth by Anwar before being seconded by Dominic Lau Hoe Chai. – Bernama, June 19, 2023.