The microphone of Ahmad Yahya (PN-Pokok Sena) was switched off in the middle of his debate by Ramli, who warned Ahmad that he was debating and questioning other aspects of the Act instead of focusing on the amendment.
“This is the second time I’ve observed Pokok Sena (Ahmad) debating. Do you understand what we are debating today? Please stand up when you want to answer or speak, stand up. This is courtesy in this house.
“Stand up, do you understand?” said Ramli.
He reminded Ahmad of Standing Order 36 (1) on the rules of the debate, where a member should only debate on matters pertaining to the amendments and nothing else.
Before being reprimanded, Ahmad had pointed out that the majority of psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists are located in Penang and the Klang Valley. He was cut off as he was asking about the ratio between a mental health expert and the general population.
When he was given the floor again, Ahmad raised the issue of the lack of mental health experts in schools, particularly primary schools, as he said mental illness among children is also on the rise.
Ramli then replied: “I would like to state that the minister does not have to reply on anything Pokok Sena has said today. Standing Order 36 (1) is clear on the main Act or its amendments. We are now debating the amendment.
“Sometimes we give space but please take note, don’t waste time. Focus on our duty. If we are debating the main Act, then yes, it will be more comprehensive. Please take note of this,” he said.
Ramli had also called out Syerleena Abdul Rashid (PH-Bukit Bendera) after she finished her debate for veering off topic as well.
Syerleena apologised to the house.
However, Hassan Abdul Karim (PH-Pasir Gudang) asked Ramli not to be so rigid when it comes to Standing Order 36 (1). “Even though we are discussing the amendment, this amendment will become an Act to replace the Act before this. So, I hope you can give some leeway, and there is no need for the MP to apologise, unless they have veered too far off topic.”
Ramli then replied: “I take note, but there are Standing Orders granting the Speaker discretion. I am only informing and stating the regulations.”