THE State Legislative Assembly on Monday passed the Constitution of the State of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill, 2025 with a majority vote.
The Bill was earlier tabled by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
A total of 23 assemblymen took part in the debate, with only two — Pending and Padungan — opposing the amendment.
When winding up the debate, Abdul Karim stressed that the amendment does not specify any immediate changes to existing ministries or ministerial appointments.
“As I mentioned in my earlier tabling, one of the reasons for this amendment is the changing governance landscape,” he said.
He noted that Sarawak had increased its number of state constituencies from 82 to 99 during the previous DUN sitting — a significant expansion that may require adjustments to the structure of the state administration.
“This constitutional amendment may only be applied after the next state election, or it may be used earlier — that decision lies entirely with the Premier. Once passed, it becomes law, and it gives the Premier the prerogative to increase, restructure or reduce the Cabinet,” he said during a press conference later.
On whether any ministries or ministers would be affected, Abdul Karim reiterated that it would be entirely up to the Premier.
“The power to reshuffle or reorganise the Cabinet is the prerogative of the Chief Executive — the Right Honourable Premier. This amendment concerns the composition of the Cabinet,” he said.
He pointed out that the last time such an amendment was made was in 1995.
“That was 30 years ago. It shows that there was no pressing urgency all this while, but the fact that it is being tabled now reflects the Premier’s assessment of current needs and the importance of certain key areas,” he added.
Commenting on concerns over the possibility of additional ministries, Abdul Karim said the question of whether such expansion is ‘suitable’ is not the main issue.
“What matters is whether we have the means to sustain it. Ministries come with entire administrative structures — permanent secretaries, agencies and budgets worth tens or even hundreds of millions. It’s not just about the salaries of ministers and deputy ministers,” he said.
“If the government has sufficient resources, then why not? What is crucial is that whoever is appointed — Minister, Deputy Minister, Permanent Secretary or officer — must be capable and trustworthy in carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to them.”
When asked whether the amendment could lead to the creation of new ministries, Abdul Karim did not rule out the possibility.
“Oh yes. New ministries may be formed or existing ones reorganised. We’ll just have to wait and see whether it happens now or after the next election,” he said.
A total of 74 assemblymen voted in favour of the Bill, while two voted against.
