By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 12: Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar highlighted Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen’s opposition to the motion amending Standing Orders, arguing it exemplifies why the changes are needed to uphold decorum and integrity among lawmakers, both within and outside the Assembly to curb this kind of conduct.
Chong criticised the amendments, calling them “ridiculous”, particularly the requirement for members to substantiate and verify comments, allegations, and information presented in the House, including quoting sources from mainstream newspapers and online news portals in the House and reported outside.
Asfia clarified that members can speak without fear or favour but must support their statements with facts.
In response, Chong insisted he always bases his statements on facts.
“Then why do you keep ending up in court and losing? How many times have you been sued? And you’ve had to pay (damages),” Asfia remarked, prompting laughter in the chamber.
Chong countered, stating Asfia was making the issue personal, reminding him that, as Speaker, he should remain impartial.
“I have never sued you. But others sued you and you lost the case. You have to pay a fine. How many times? You insulted the government. And then you are fined,” Asfia said.
Chong corrected Asfia saying that it is not a fine but damages in reminding him to choose his word properly.
Earlier, Chong argued that the amendment aims to intimidate members from freely debating in the House and limits their rights outside it where people are free to form their opinions, speak their minds and even disagree with one another.
“Mr Speaker, you may be the Lord in this House, but outside, we’re subject to the same laws and constitution. You can’t regulate my actions beyond this chamber.
“You can’t regulate what I am doing or how I act outside this Dewan. And also, Mr Speaker, this is a House of Commons under Westminster practice, where the Opposition has its say and government its way. Now, you’re taking away our right to speak. That’s not right. Even court judgments are open to critique. There are legal articles criticising certain court rulings,” he highlighted.
Asfia stressed that lawmakers should avoid using seditious, libelous, or pretentious language.
“What you say, the words you choose—they all matter. You must speak thoughtfully and responsibly. This House has the right to regulate its proceedings and assess the language members use. Criticism must be backed by verifiable facts and reliable sources.
“You have no license to criticise anybody if the veracity of that statement is questionable and the source is not verified. Surely this House has the right to regulate its meetings. Surely this House has the right to judge the words you use, the phraseology you use,” he replied.
Chong suggested he would accept the amendment if references to “newspapers and online news portals” were removed, emphasising that these registered media outlets are bound by law to uphold ethical standards.
“I can accept restrictions on social media and unregulated online platforms, but not on credible news sources. Read the amendment closely and consider if it aligns with my concerns,” he urged.
The Sarawak Assembly subsequently passed the amendments to its Standing Orders, aiming to strengthen governance by ensuring allegations presented in the House are substantiated and verified, and addressing the misuse of social media and press conferences to undermine the Speaker’s authority. — DayakDaily
