KUALA LUMPUR: A government backbencher has called for any ambiguity surrounding the anti-hopping law to be removed.

In lauding the announcement made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim where Putrajaya is open to discussing amendments to the law, Pasir Gudang member of parliament Hassan Abdul Karim suggested that Article 49A(1)(a)(ii) of the Federal Constitution be amended to make the provision clearer.

"I welcome the prime minister's proposal to amend the law in an effort to make it clearer and eliminate any ambiguity.

"In doing so, the provision of Article 49A(1)(a)(ii) must be amended to make it clearer than the existing provision currently.

"The provision states that (a seat is considered vacant) when a member of the House 'ceases to be a member of the political party'.

"The word 'ceases' here must be elaborated upon further to eliminate any form of uncertainty," he said when contacted by the New Straits Times.

Earlier, Anwar announced that the government was open to discussions on amendments to the Anti-Hopping Law to address the gaps in the legislation.

The prime minister said Pakatan Harapan in 2022 had proposed the amendment to the act, but the government had rejected such proposal at the time.

"Previously, we suggested that anyone expelled by their party should vacate their seat, but this was not agreed upon by the government then.

"At that time, Umno members were joining their (Bersatu's) party, so I believe if amendments are needed, we can discuss ensuring no one is exempted," said Anwar.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1075700/govt-backbencher-calls-clarity-anti-hopping-law-amendments