G25 Commends Govt S Reform Push In Tabling New Laws

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G25 Malaysia has commended the government for advancing reforms by the recent tabling of the Parliamentary Service Bill and Constitution (Amendment) Bill, and passing the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) Bill.
The group described the MMC Bill being passed in the Dewan Rakyat as a significant step toward media self-regulation that would strengthen press freedom and accountability.
However, G25 emphasised the need to repeal restrictive laws and safeguard the MMC’s independence from political or external influence.
“It is in the nation’s best interest for the government to support the MMC’s autonomy by establishing it as an impartial body.
“This will build trust as well as be a manifestation of a government that upholds freedom of the press and media integrity,” it said, adding that such measures would bolster Malaysia’s international reputation and promote a more informed society.
G25 acknowledged the Parliamentary Service Bill and the Constitution (Amendment) Bill as important steps to restore Parliament’s independent administrative framework, following the repeal of the Parliamentary Service Act 1963 in 1992.
It emphasised that these reforms are essential to safeguard Parliament’s independence, thereby reinforcing the constitutional doctrine of separation of powers and the system of checks and balances.
The group also called on the Parliamentary Service Council to clearly define the roles of opposition representatives and backbenchers in Parliament, while ensuring job security for parliamentary officers to safeguard against political interference.
Additionally, the group voiced concern over Section 11(1) of the Parliamentary Service Bill, which permits the appointment of the chief administrator of Parliament from the general public service.
It urged that such appointments be made exclusively from within Parliament’s independent service to uphold its autonomy.
G25 Malaysia is a civil society organisation composed of influential retired Malay civil servants, diplomats, academics, and professionals committed to advocating for good governance, constitutional democracy, and a moderate approach to Islam.
Its members include former Finance Ministry secretary-general Mohd Sheriff Mohd Kassim, former director-general of Education Asiah Abu Samah, former High Court judge Syed Ahmad Idid, and former ambassador to the Netherlands Noor Farida Ariffin.
- Bernama

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