Ngeh files motion to refer PN man to privileges committee

Ngeh files motion to refer PN man to privileges committee

PETALING JAYA: A government backbencher has submitted a motion to refer Pendang MP Awang Hashim to the Dewan Rakyat’s rights and privileges committee for accusing him of challenging Islam and interfering in religious matters during the parliamentary debate last Tuesday.

Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham said the allegations stemmed from his statement in December 2023, in which he suggested that non-Muslim constitutional experts be appointed to the committee reviewing the jurisdiction of shariah courts according to the Federal Constitution.

Ngeh later apologised and withdrew his proposal. Shortly after, his home was set on fire in an arson attack involving what was believed to be a Molotov cocktail.

In his motion, the DAP lawmaker reiterated that his statement focused only on constitutional matters and was never an attempt to interfere in Islamic affairs.

“Therefore, YB Pendang is clearly guilty of violating Standing Order 36(6) by making malicious accusations against me, and violating Standing Order 36(12) by making false statements that misled the House,” he said.

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Checks by FMT of the official Hansard on Feb 18 found that Awang had cited Ngeh’s statement after the latter attempted to interrupt.

Awang had asked how the national unity ministry could carry out its role if a “certain DAP minister” was allegedly interfering in Islamic matters by infringing on the Perak government’s proposed alcohol ban expansion.

Awang: In December 2023, Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham suggested that constitutional experts from among non-Muslims be appointed to the special committee studying the competence of state legislative assemblies in drafting Islamic laws. Isn’t this a challenge to Islam? Why are you interfering? Malay Muslims don’t interfere with your religion – do whatever you want with it. I even recited a surah just now…

Ngeh: This is slander.

Awang: … has been prohibited. So, because of that…

Ngeh: Mr Speaker, this is slander.