Kuala lumpur: The Melaka State Legislative Assembly today passed a Bill to amend the State Constitution, allowing for the appointment of up to seven nominated state assemblymen. The Melaka State Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 was approved with support from 23 assemblymen, while five voted against it.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Bill was introduced by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and seconded by Datuk Rais Yasin, Senior State Executive Councillor for Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change, and Disaster Management. Ab Rauf stated that the amendment's purpose is to enhance representation in the State Assembly by incorporating individuals with expertise in various fields such as law, economics, education, investment, technology, and state development, thus directly contributing to policymaking and legislative debates.
Ab Rauf highlighted that this move would also provide opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women, youths, the Orang Asli, minority communities, professionals, and industry representatives, who may not have electoral success but can contribute significantly to the state's progress. He emphasized the potential for appointed members to enrich debates with technical and objective perspectives on bills, policies, and state administrative matters, thereby strengthening checks and balances in the State Assembly.
During the session, the amendment was debated by three assemblymen, including Melaka Opposition Leader Dr Mohd Yadzil Yaakub. Dr Yadzil supported the Bill, noting that if executed properly through a transparent mechanism focused on citizen interests, it could fortify the state legislative institution. He referenced the federal Dewan Negara appointments as a model where individuals with relevant expertise and experience can significantly influence the legislative process.
This constitutional amendment to allow nominated state assemblymen was part of the Barisan Nasional (BN) manifesto under Thrust 1: Political Stability (Promoting Mature Politics) for the 2021 Melaka state election.