PRIME Minister Najib Razak today tabled the motion to redraw electoral boundaries based on the Election Commission’s re-delineation report, despite objections from opposition lawmakers.

During his speech, Najib (BN-Pekan) said criticism that the proposal benefited only the ruling government were baseless.

“It is hoped that these recommendations will help members of parliament deliver their services more efficiently and effectively to voters within their election boundaries.

“This gives members of parliament more opportunities to increase their service efficiency, and at the same time puts to rest the false perception and allegations that these recommendations will only benefit certain parties,” said Najib.

The motion was supported by Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (BN-Bagan Datuk).

Dewan Rakyat speaker Pandikar Amin Mulia then fixed a 10-minute time limit for five MPs from Pakatan Harapan and six MPs from Barisan Nasional (BN) to debate the motion.

The debate kicked off with Sungai Besar MP Budiman Zohdi.

Najib had tabled the motion after a 20-minute break was called due to an order by Pandikar for Lim Kit Siang (DAP-Gelang Patah) to leave the chamber.

Lim had defied the order, and continued to challenge Pandikar’s ruling that the re-delineation motion could proceed to be tabled in Parliament.

When the session resumed, Lim returned and was allowed to attend proceedings. – March 28, 2018.