Heated Exchange Erupts in Parliament Over ‘Apartheid’ Comment on Fund Allocation

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5: The Dewan Rakyat witnessed a fiery exchange on Wednesday after opposition lawmaker Datuk Seri Dr. Shahidan Kassim (PN–Arau) likened the government’s distribution of constituency funds to an “apartheid” policy, sparking outrage among government MPs.

The confrontation began when Shahidan expressed strong dissatisfaction during the debate on the Supply Bill 2026, claiming that opposition MPs continued to be denied allocations. He alleged that this discrimination reflected a failure of Parliament as an institution.

“Parliament is supposed to be an independent, world-class legislative body. But it’s not even functioning properly here. I support shutting down this Parliament’s services  it was closed before and reopened,” Shahidan said during his debate speech.

His remarks drew an immediate rebuke from RSN Rayer (PH Jelutong), who stood up and accused Shahidan of disrespecting Parliament.

“He said this Parliament has no standard. You are an MP   you can debate and express dissatisfaction, but don’t insult the dignity of this House. Shame on you, Arau,” Rayer shot back, prompting a shouting match across the floor.

The verbal altercation grew increasingly heated until both MPs’ microphones were muted by the Speaker.

In response to the chaos, Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr. Ramli Mohd Nor issued a stern warning to all Members of Parliament, citing frequent disruptions and unruly conduct during recent sittings.

“YBs, I have been observing the proceedings and found far too many unnecessary interruptions,” he said. “Please take note of Standing Orders 7(4) and 37(2). If any MP disobeys my instructions, I will proceed to make a charge immediately. Should the response be unsatisfactory, I will deliver a ruling after obtaining an explanation.”

The tense exchange highlights growing friction in Parliament over the long-debated issue of unequal constituency allocations, which opposition MPs have repeatedly criticized as politically motivated.

Observers note that the debate on the Supply Bill 2026, which determines next year’s government spending, has increasingly become a platform for clashes between ruling and opposition blocs over transparency, fairness, and institutional integrity.