Guidelines in progress: MPs may soon be prohibited from raising 3R issues in Parliament

KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 — The National Unity Ministry is preparing new guidelines aimed at discouraging Members of Parliament (MPs) from raising sensitive issues related to race, religion, and the monarchy (3R) during Dewan Rakyat debates.

Deputy Minister R. Yuneswaran said the proposed guidelines will soon be submitted to Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Dr Johari Abdul.

“While MPs are granted immunity in the Dewan Rakyat, they must still exercise responsibility to ensure their statements do not incite public anger or tension.

“Immunity does not give us the freedom to make remarks that touch on the sensitivities of race, religion, or the royal institution,” he said at the launch of the Malaysian Racism Report 2025 by Pusat Komas today.

He added that all parties, including politicians, should prioritise national development and the well-being of the people.

Yuneswaran also expressed support for a proposal by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia to introduce a National Harmony Act, noting that it remains in the early stages and would require backing from the Prime Minister’s Office as part of efforts to strengthen unity.

“In fact, the ministry is also exploring the establishment of a Harmony Commission alongside the proposed Harmony Act, though discussions are still at an early stage,” he said. — Bernama