Sarawak to consider extending legislative assembly sitting duration for more deliberation time

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Nov 20: Sarawak will consider extending the duration of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting to provide lawmakers with more time to discuss important matters.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg acknowledged the request brought forward by Machan assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong, who highlighted the need for more in-depth discussions on key issues.

“Last year, we received a request for additional allowances (for members of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly or DUS).

“This time, we are looking at extending the sitting for our members and I will leave it to the Speaker (Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar) to look into this matter,” he said during ‘Gabungan Parti Sarawak’s (GPS) Backbenchers Night’ held at Sheraton Kuching Hotel earlier tonight.

Abang Johari, who is also the GPS chairman, took the opportunity to commend all assemblymen for professionalism demonstrated during the current DUS session.

Despite the limited time, Abang Johari stated, the elected representatives showed great skill in managing time effectively.

“While there were more issues to discuss, you (elected representatives) focused on substance.

“We had a serious, constructive session, unlike some other places where chaos reigns,” he remarked.

He also credited the success of the session to the adherence to standing orders and the Speaker’s guidance, including amendments made to improve the order and decorum of the assembly.

Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, DUS GPS chief whip Dato Ibrahim Baki, and Allan who is the GPS Backbenchers Night organising chairman. — DayakDaily

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