The Melaka State Legislative Assembly today passed a constitutional amendment allowing the appointment of up to seven unelected assemblymen.
Speaker Ibrahim Durum announced that 23 assemblymen voted in favour of the bill, while five voted against it.
The amendment was approved after it was tabled by Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh and debated by members of the assembly.
DAP reiterates plan to withdraw
Ahead of the vote, Malaysiakini reported that Melaka DAP was preparing to withdraw from the Barisan Nasional (BN)-led state government and resign from all positions in the state administration in protest against the proposed amendment.
Melaka DAP chief Khoo Poay Tiong later told FMT that the party would leave the state government and relinquish all posts in the administration if the bill was passed.
DAP currently has four assemblymen serving in the Melaka government.
Seah Shoo Chin, the Kesidang assemblyman, serves as the executive councillor for entrepreneur development, cooperatives and consumer affairs.
Meanwhile, Low Chee Leong of Kota Laksamana, Leng Chau Yen of Bandar Hilir and Kerk Chee Yee of Ayer Keroh serve as deputy executive councillors.
Similar move approved in Johor
Melaka’s decision follows a similar constitutional amendment passed by the Johor State Legislative Assembly in May.
The Johor amendment allows the appointment of five unelected assemblymen, increasing the total number of state representatives to 61.
The proposal drew criticism from opposition parties, BN’s federal coalition partners DAP and PKR, as well as civil society groups.
