KUALA LUMPUR – Thirteen members of the Senate, including six newly appointed senators, took their oath of office today before Senate president Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah.
The six new appointees are acting Bentong Umno chief Datuk Seri Mohamad Zaini Salleh, Wanita MCA chief Datuk Wong You Fong, Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Johor DAP vice-chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, Sarawak DAP assistant secretary Larry Asap, and R. Thiagarajah.
Six senators were reappointed: Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan, Datuk Seri Profesor Dr Awang Sariyan, Datuk Dr Mohd Hatta Md Ramli, Isaiah D. Jacob, Mohd Hasbie Muda, and Abun Sui Anyitm.
Abdul Nasir Idris was re-elected by the Kedah State Legislative Assembly.
“All six new appointments by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong are for a three-year term from today until May 10, 2029, while the reappointments run from March 20, 2026, to March 19, 2029,” Bernama reported.
In his address, Awang Bemee congratulated the senators and called on them to use the Senate as a platform for mature and constructive debate, representing the voices of states and federal territories.
The Senate president also highlighted the challenges posed by global geopolitical and economic conditions, including supply chain disruptions, energy market volatility, rising logistics costs, and inflation affecting living costs.
“Malaysia’s Parliament is entering an important phase through the enforcement of the Parliamentary Services Act 2025 to strengthen the separation of powers.
“The Senate also approved amendments to its standing orders on March 9, including the establishment of five new select committees covering public administration and governance; trade, industry and international relations; food security and the economy; social services, minorities, culture and indigenous affairs; as well as defence and security,” he said.
Awang Bemee encouraged senators to actively participate in these committees to bolster the Senate’s role and advocate for public interests.
He emphasised that in today’s digital communication era, senators’ duties extend beyond the chamber, including promoting understanding of constitutional supremacy, parliamentary democracy, and the rule of law.
“Use social media and various communication platforms responsibly to assist the public, strengthen unity and preserve national harmony,” he added. – May 11, 2026