He said the matter was discussed and agreed upon at a meeting held yesterday with the chief whips of the government and the opposition, the opposition leader and the backbencher chairman.

Johari said he hoped the MPs would commit to ensuring that debates in the Dewan Rakyat proceed smoothly and with due “courtesy and morality”, in line with the principles of the Rukun Negara.

“My deputy speakers and I will take stern action based on the standing orders if such remarks continue to be made,” he told the House today.

On Feb 5, FMT reported that Johari planned to enforce fines of RM1,000 or more on MPs who make racist, sexist or contemptuous remarks.

Speaking at an interview with the media, Johari said any fine imposed will be based on existing rules.  He also said there was a likelihood that the existing penalty may be increased.

The Speaker said he was also considering setting up a select committee to oversee the conduct of MPs. The committee will be tasked with drawing up guidelines of what is deemed offensive.

Johari said MPs from both sides of the political divide will be given a chance to preside over special chamber sessions under Standing Order 16(5).

They will be allowed to raise a maximum of four administrative matters pursuant to Standing Order 17.

“I suggest that all MPs, especially those who are new, use this opportunity to submit as many questions as possible. God willing, they will be answered by the ministers in the special chamber sessions,” he said.

He said that backbenchers will be also given the opportunity to preside over special chamber proceedings.

Ministers will be allowed to give briefing sessions in the special chambers if they are not afforded the opportunity of speaking in the Dewan Rakyat, he added.