Johor bahru: The Johor State Legislative Assembly today passed a bill to amend the state enactment, allowing for the appointment of up to five non-elected state assemblymen to strengthen the composition and functions of the legislative institution.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the bill to amend Part Two, Clause 15 of the Johor Constitution 1985 was passed after securing more than two-thirds support, with 40 assemblymen in favour and 16 opposing it. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, when tabling the bill at Bangunan Sultan Ismail, stated that these appointments aim to broaden participation in the State Legislative Assembly through the involvement of individuals with expertise and experience to enhance debate and the policymaking process.
Onn Hafiz emphasized the importance of expanding the range of views in the State Legislative Assembly, particularly in the context of Johor's rapid development and new investments. He expressed confidence that this proposal would enhance the assembly's capacity to assess and make decisions comprehensively and effectively.
The amendment was implemented in accordance with legal procedures, requiring the support of not less than two-thirds of the assemblymen. Onn Hafiz noted that this approach is also practised in other states, such as Pahang, Terengganu, and Sabah.
The bill includes a clause allowing for the appointment of no more than five non-elected assemblymen, potentially increasing the number of assemblymen from 56 to 61. These appointed members will complement the existing composition of the State Legislative Assembly without going through the election process.
Onn Hafiz further detailed that the third clause introduced Clauses 15A, 15B, and 15C, which provide for appointments to be made through a motion in the State Legislative Assembly, subject to the Sultan's consent. During the debate, Anuar Abdul Manap (BN-Pemanis) supported the bill, stating that the appointment of non-elected assemblymen would enhance the quality of services delivered to the people.