KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 19): Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul on Monday reminded members of Parliament to exercise caution in their choice of words during debates to avoid controversies that could disrupt the smooth proceedings of the house.

He said the use of certain words, particularly those carrying sensitive religious connotations, could lead to misunderstandings or offend others, depending on their backgrounds and level of understanding.

Citing the word ‘munafik’ (hypocrite) as an example, Johari said the term could affect individuals differently, and MPs should therefore consider the sensitivities of all parties before using it.

“If someone called me a ‘munafik’, I would go home and fall ill immediately because I did not attend a religious school. If that is how I, as a Muslim, would feel, imagine how much more frightening it would be for a non-Muslim,” he said before the Dewan Rakyat began debating the policy stage of the Supply Bill 2027.

He said MPs should use words that are easily understood and avoid controversial terms to ensure debates remain focused on issues affecting the people, rather than becoming prolonged disputes over the use of particular expressions.

“Not all our colleagues here (MPs) have the same depth of knowledge as we do. So, use your judgement and speak in a way that everyone can understand,” he said.

Johari said debates over words that not everyone understands could also drag on without resolution, wasting time that should instead be spent discussing the people’s concerns.

Earlier, RSN Rayer (Pakatan Harapan-Jelutong) raised Standing Order 36(4), which prohibits the use of offensive language, following a remark by Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (Perikatan Nasional-Kota Bharu), who had used the word ‘munafik’ in reference to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Johari subsequently said he would rule on the matter raised by Rayer on Tuesday.

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