KUALA LUMPUR: The amendments to the Constitution for the Parliamentary Services Bill are not just cosmetic changes.
They are also crucial reforms aimed at strengthening Parliament’s ability to function independently and professionally.
Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim said that these amendments would bring significant improvements, particularly by making Parliament more professional and efficient while enhancing public confidence in Malaysia’s democratic system.
“With the restoration of autonomy, Parliament can manage its own administration without executive interference, allowing it to operate more effectively and independently.
“When the public sees that Parliament is functioning freely and responsibly, their trust in this institution will grow,” he said.
He made these remarks while debating the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2025 for the Parliamentary Services Bill 2025 during the Dewan Negara sitting yesterday.
Ahmad added that the bill would empower key parliamentary officials, particularly the secretaries of the Dewan Negara and Dewan Rakyat, by giving them clearer and more independent authority in managing parliamentary affairs without needing approval from the executive.
He stressed that this move would reinforce the separation of powers, ensuring that Parliament remains a truly independent legislative body, free from executive control.
However, he pointed out key challenges in implementing parliamentary autonomy, particularly regarding the appointment of senior parliamentary officials and financial management.
“It is crucial that appointments to key administrative positions, such as the secretaries of the Dewan Negara and Dewan Rakyat, are based on merit and competence, not political influence.
“With the return of parliamentary autonomy, we must also ensure a transparent and accountable financial system to prevent leakages and wastage.
“Accountability must be a priority, ensuring that every ringgit spent truly benefits our democracy,” he stressed.
He further noted that maintaining both independence and accountability is essential, particularly in ensuring that all policies, regulations and decisions made by Parliament reflect the will of the people and align with the Constitution.
