BY NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS & FASIHA KHUSHIRI
KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has proposed that members of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) embark on a study trip to the United States to better understand its unique system of parliamentary democracy.
Speaking at the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Backbenchers Night at the DUN complex here on Tuesday (May 27), Abang Johari said he had suggested the idea to DUN Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, noting the significant differences between the American system and the Westminster model inherited from the United Kingdom.
“In the Westminster system, Parliament forms the Cabinet. But in the United States, Congress is separate from the Cabinet, and the executive authority lies with the President,” he said.
“Still, the essence of democracy remains; the people elect their representatives. I leave it to the Speaker to decide whether this visit can be arranged,” he added.
He said such a trip would be educational for all DUN members and that Asfia had previously expressed interest in providing opportunities for legislators to travel abroad, conduct research, and broaden their understanding of democratic systems and governance models worldwide.
The Premier also reminded DUN members of the importance of safeguarding the legislature’s constitutional authority, as outlined under Article 95C(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution.
“Every member of this DUN must understand and uphold this provision, which grants us the power to enact laws for Sarawak,” he said.
“Since the day we became part of Malaysia in 1963, the DUN has been granted powers by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to enact laws specifically for Sarawak.
“For instance, the Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO) 2016 cannot be disputed, as it was enacted by the DUN under legislative powers conferred through Article 95C(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution.
“This provision empowers Parliament to authorise the State Assembly to make laws on matters otherwise within federal jurisdiction,” he added.
Abang Johari’s remarks reinforced Sarawak’s long-standing emphasis on its legislative independence and the importance of continuously enhancing the capacity and knowledge of its lawmakers.
