KUALA LUMPUR (June 4): The Federal Government is currently studying the concept and mechanism that will allow the implementation of a hybrid Parliament sitting which involves the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara, according to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Parliament and Law) Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan. 

In a statement today, the minister said the initiative was taken to ensure the Parliament will be able to play its role as the country faces the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to Takiyuddin, he had met with the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, the President of the Dewan Negara and their deputies to discuss issues related to preparations for a hybrid sitting of Parliament, such as infrastructure, technical matters, laws, regulations, and finances. 

“Today’s meeting basically agreed on the hybrid Parliament concept plan based on the participation of Members Parliament (MP) physically, as well as virtually. 

“The meeting also decided that a more detailed study to be made immediately in order to provide a comprehensive report that will be presented for Cabinet’s consideration and approval,” he added. 

Previously, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced a state of Emergency to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysia. It is slated to last until Aug 1, or until Covid-19 is brought under control. 

Under the Emergency declaration, Parliament and state legislative assemblies will not be allowed to meet until such a time as decided by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.