KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, reminded all Members of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara that Parliament is not a place for hostility, insults, or the spread of slander.

Instead, His Majesty emphasised that Parliament is a distinguished institution dedicated to debating the agenda of the people's interests and the country's prosperity.

Sultan Ibrahim added that Parliament serves as the nation's highest assembly, a meeting place where the voices of the people are represented, laws are enacted, and a platform for checks and balances on the country's administration.

"Honourable Members should be as a bastion of national unity, not agents of division among the people.

"Stop politicising every issue and prioritising only your party or group's interests," said the King in his royal address at the opening of the First Meeting of the Fourth Session of the 15th Parliament for the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara today.

Sultan Ibrahim also extended his congratulations to all members of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara for demonstrating a more respectful demeanour during the previous session.

"I noticed a significant change in the behaviour of the members during the last session, with many displaying a more courteous attitude. Congratulations to all.

"However, some members continue to struggle with shedding old habits. I need not enumerate these negative traits, as I trust each member is aware of them and understands how to manage their own conduct.

The King further expressed his gratitude to all political leaders for their efforts in maintaining political stability, which has contributed to the nation's economic and social prosperity.

This parliamentary sitting will run for 18 days, with the main focus being the debate on the motion of thanks for the royal address by members of Parliament. This debate will take place over a period of seven days, beginning on Feb 4. The winding-up sessions by the relevant ministries are scheduled from Feb 19 to 25.

Following that, the final six days of the sitting, starting from Feb 26, will be dedicated to discussions on bills and other government matters.

The Dewan Negara is scheduled to sit for 13 days, beginning March 3.

-- BERNAMA