KUALA LUMPUR – Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said expressed hope that the Parliamentary Services Act, which is yet to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat, would come to fruition this year.
Addressing the monthly assembly of the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) under the Prime Minister’s Department, Azalina said the act would redefine the separation of powers among the judiciary, executive, and legislative branches.
She emphasised that the enactment of this law is comprehensive and aligns with technological advancements, ultimately benefiting the nation and its citizens.
“We hope, Insha’Allah, that if the cabinet has reached its decision, we can make the (necessary) amendment to the constitution (regarding the re-enactment). We hope the act will become a reality this year.
“This amendment to the constitution and the act would be the stepping stone for the parliament to be more structurally independent.”
“We hope, inshallah (God willing), pending the cabinet’s decision, to proceed with the necessary constitutional amendments for its enactment. Our aim is for the act to become a reality this year,” she said.
Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, on March 16 last year, advocated for the act’s re-enactment to ensure the Dewan Rakyat’s independence from executive control.
The act, repealed in 1992, previously empowered Parliament to manage its administration, staffing, and financing.
In her address, Azalina also underscored reforms within the Legal Aid Department (LAD) as part of broader institutional changes. She stressed the need for the department to prioritise assisting individuals with criminal cases.
Azalina disclosed ongoing discussions with the Bar Council to organise a national conference aimed at charting a new direction for the department.
“Usually, LAD’s (lawyers) are involved in remand cases. Therefore, I believe we need to conduct this study together with the Bar Council on how this department could aid in terms of criminal trial, charges, or remand,” she said.
Established under the Legal Aid Act 1971, the LAD aims to provide affordable legal services as an alternative to private legal practitioners.
Its scope encompasses legal advice on criminal, civil, and Sharia family matters. – April 23, 2024