She also called for more opposition members to be allowed to join the committees as they have nearly double the number of MPs compared with the government backbenchers.

Teo, a former deputy education minister, said there are only two opposition MPs in each committee currently, adding that the limit was not fair considering the smaller number of backbenchers.

“I hope the speaker can consider this request because, to me, it’s reasonable. If we can increase the number of members, then at least we can allow three to four opposition MPs in each committee.

“There are committees that many MPs are interested in, touching on issues such as education and gender equality, for example. So, if MPs intend to give their views and get involved, why aren’t we giving them the opportunity to do so?

“It would be better to not limit the number of members in the select committees to seven. Increase it to at least nine. If you want to add more, up to 10 or 11, that’s no problem, too,” she said at a press conference at Parliament today.

Teo said countries such as the UK and New Zealand allow more than 10 members in their select committees, while Canada even allows up to 15 members.

She acknowledged that the limit of seven members was in effect during Pakatan Harapan’s time in government, but said the select committees which follow specific themes were also started by it.

“I’m not sure whether there were any requests at the time (for the number of members to be increased), but I think now, as an opposition MP, I’m interested to join the committee and I hope my right to join is not denied,” she said.

Currently, the nine special committees involve human rights and constitutional affairs, science and innovation, finance and economy, monitoring of agencies under the Prime Minister’s Department, infrastructure, education, health, women and children.