Parliament Returns with Key Reform Bills on PM Term Limits, Judicial Separation and Cybercrime

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s Parliament will reconvene on Monday for the second meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament, with a series of major legislative reforms expected to dominate discussions over the next four weeks.

The 16-day Dewan Rakyat sitting, scheduled to run until July 16, will see lawmakers revisit several high-profile constitutional amendments, including a proposal to limit the prime minister’s tenure to a maximum of 10 years.

The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, which previously failed to secure the required two-thirds majority support in the Dewan Rakyat, is set to be retabled for debate and consideration.

Also returning to Parliament is the Constitution (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) of 2026, aimed at separating the roles of the attorney general and the public prosecutor. The proposed reform seeks to strengthen institutional independence and improve the administration of justice. The bill had earlier been referred to a Parliamentary Special Select Committee for detailed examination.

Another key focus of the session will be the Cybercrime Bill 2026, alongside amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987, both of which are expected to be tabled on the opening day of the sitting before proceeding to debate.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the proposed road transport amendments cover 11 key areas and 42 clauses, targeting illegal street racing activities that continue to endanger public safety.

The amendments also introduce stricter measures against “tonto” syndicates, groups known for warning offenders about enforcement operations, while strengthening enforcement powers to improve compliance with road safety laws.

Beyond legislative reforms, Members of Parliament are expected to discuss pressing national and international issues, including the impact of the ongoing conflict in West Asia on global energy supplies and its potential consequences for Malaysia’s economy and energy security.

Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul has called on lawmakers from both the government and opposition benches to uphold professionalism and focus on constructive debate throughout the session.

He stressed that parliamentary discussions should be guided by facts, data and practical solutions rather than political rhetoric, emphasising that Malaysians expect their elected representatives to address concerns related to the cost of living, healthcare, education, employment opportunities and economic growth.

Johari also reminded MPs not to allow political commitments outside Parliament, including the upcoming Johor state election, to affect their attendance and participation in parliamentary proceedings.

He said lawmakers have a responsibility to fully engage in debates and legislative discussions, describing Parliament as the nation’s highest law-making institution where critical national issues are addressed.

Following the Dewan Rakyat session, the Dewan Negara is scheduled to convene for a 10-day sitting from July 20 to Aug 4.

Political observers expect the coming parliamentary session to be one of the most significant in recent years, with debates likely to shape Malaysia’s governance, legal reforms and public policy direction for years to come.