Abg Jo proposes comparative legislative study tour to US for DUN members
Abang Johari (right) arrives at the GPS Backbenchers' Night held at the DUN Complex. – Ukas photo
KUCHING (May 28): Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has proposed a comparative legislative study tour to the United States for members of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
Speaking at the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Backbenchers' Night held at the DUN complex last night, Abang Johari underscored the importance of such study visits in broadening the perspectives of assembly members.
He emphasised the value of exposing elected representatives to various systems of governance and parliamentary democracies around the world.
'The Speaker has consulted me on providing exposure for our assembly members to conduct study visits abroad, to learn and understand the diverse systems of government and democratic practices globally, particularly those practised in mature parliamentary democracies.
'I have agreed to this proposal. Previously, we visited the United Kingdom, and this time, the Speaker and I propose that we visit the United States to study its democratic system, which differs in some aspects from the Westminster model. This will be an educational trip for our assembly members,' he said.
In addition, the Premier urged all DUN members to familiarise themselves with Article 95C(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution, which allows Parliament to confer additional legislative powers on state assemblies in certain matters.
'Members of the DUN must be well-versed in this provision, as it supports the extension of legislative authority to the State Assembly.
'Since the establishment of the DUN in 1963 by Order of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, we have been empowered to enact laws on matters under our jurisdiction, particularly those listed in the State List and those delegated by Parliament.
'This is why legislation such as the Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO) 2016 remains undisputed, as it is supported by constitutional provisions and Sarawak's special autonomy,' he explained.
He reiterated that electricity and gas matters fall under state jurisdiction, and therefore, the DGO 2016 was enacted in accordance with constitutional provisions and the 1963 order.
'Even in the future, if I am no longer Premier or an assemblyman, the next generation of DUN members must understand that this legislative power belongs to the State Assembly. It is a power that we must never compromise,' he stressed.
Abang Johari also highlighted two recently passed Bills, the Land Code (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (Amendment) Bill 2025, which he said would benefit the state's economy.
'The Land Code (Amendment) Bill 2025 amendment enables the registration of wakaf (endowment) lands, as well as other lands granted by landowners for public or charitable purposes, including those for charitable organisations.
'As for the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (Amendment) Bill 2025, some of the research conducted by the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) has commercial value. This amendment allows the outcomes of such research to be developed into commercial undertakings,' he explained.
The Premier also took the opportunity to congratulate all GPS' assembly members for demonstrating professionalism during the recent legislative debates. abang johari comparative legislative study tour lead
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