By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Feb 17 — The decision made by the State Legislative Assembly to vacate the seat of the Batang Kali state constituency was carried out per its laws and Selangor’s standing rules, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said according to the enactments and Assembly rules, any state assemblyman who has been absent for six consecutive months with no reasons given can be stripped of their seat.
“The Speaker (Ng Suee Lim) has carefully examined all the enactments, legislation, and standing rules. So we are in accordance with the law.
“The individual (who has been stripped of the seat) can choose to take follow-up action if they feel this has been unfair. At the present, the State Legislative Assembly’s decision is final, and the former assemblyman can choose to pursue it in a court of law, as is his right,” he said.
The Sungai Tua state assemblyman said Ng was merely carrying out his duties, according to the scope of the Speaker’s responsibilities.
“He failed to provide reasonable notice for his absence of six months, which made it automatic. If you were ill, provide a sick certificate from the doctor. Similarly, if you were abroad, you must present information to that end.
“Attendance is mandatory as we are state legislators, which is a responsibility that must be carried out,” Amirudin said.
Yesterday, Ng announced the ejection of Harumaini Omar from the Batang Kali state constituency seat, after he failed to attend the State Legislative Assembly for more than six months without reason.
The decision, effective January 28, was made as Harumaini provided no explanations for his absence throughout the State Legislative Assembly sittings in November last year.
His last attendance was dated to July 27, 2022, based on official records and the attendance book.
