KUALA LUMPUR – Newly minted Dewan Negara President Datuk Mutang Tagal has called on members of the upper House to substantively debate issues, even during times when the Senate might hold a different view from the Dewan Rakyat.
In his inaugural speech after being sworn in as the 20th Dewan Negara president, Mutang stressed that the Dewan Negara had a duty to uphold a certain level of credibility and prestige in its debates on bills passed by the lower House.
“I urge all Dewan Negara members to debate with substance and in a constructive manner while firmly voicing your stand based on your respective field of expertise, even if such a stance might sometimes not align with decisions by the Dewan Rakyat,” he said during a special sitting of the upper House today.
He also cited Roman statesman and lawyer Cicero, who said: “I have always been of the opinion that unpopularity earned by doing what is right is not unpopularity at all, but glory.”
Mutang also said he would strive to use his knowledge as a legal practitioner to the best of his ability to strengthen and dignity the position of the Dewan Negara and Parliament as the nation’s legislative body, as provided for by the Federal Constitution.
He also touched on the doctrine of separation of powers, noting that it was fundamental to Parliament as the only body that approves national laws and policies.
“This function also comes with the Dewan Negara’s responsibility as a check-and-balance mechanism, not only to the executive body but also to the Dewan Rakyat.
“I believe every member of the Dewan Negara, with their respective professional credibility, will continue to ensure laws presented and debated for the upper House’s approval will benefit and protect the rights of all Malaysians.”
Mutang’s appointment as Senate president comes after the position was vacated by his predecessor, Tun Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, who resigned from the post to pave the way for his appointment as Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak.
The 70-year-old is a trained lawyer from the Lun Bawang tribe – making him the first Dayak to hold the post – and was previously Bukit Mas MP for two terms in the 1980s.
The former Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu supreme council member was the sole candidate nominated by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and was appointed without challenge from the opposition. – Scoop
