DUN Sarawak: Freedom of speech is not a license to press charges

KUCHING, 15 Oct: Freedom of speech in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) must be exercised responsibly and subject to meeting rules.

Member of the Legislative Assembly (ADUN) Lingga, Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor said that although every ADUN has the right to question government policy, this right should not be abused to make accusations against other members without any basis or evidence.

"We must distinguish between freedom of speech and freedom to accuse. To question government policy is the right of every member. That's the heart of democracy.

"But accusing the motives of an unfounded member is no longer a matter of debate", he said while supporting the proposal of Sarawak Transport Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin regarding actions against UNDP President Chong Chieng Jen at the 19th Sarawak UN Conference today.

Dayang Noorazah said that every ADUN must abide by the meeting rules to ensure that the conference journey goes smoothly, fairly and responsibly.

In addition, the voice privilege granted to ADUN is not unlimited freedom, but rather must be exercised within a prescribed regulatory framework.

"These regulations are not just administrative guidelines. It is a procedural framework that examines the fair, orderly and changing conduct of debates, as well as protecting the rights of every respected member in this House. The resolution outlines three clear violations as of October 14, 2026.

"First, repeating unverified information and insinuations and failing to disclose evidence when requested by the residents. Second, using language that insults and offends members of the House. Third, associate unreasonable motives with other members without being willing to prove it", he said.

He also stressed that the enforcement of rules should be implemented consistently, fairly and without bias to preserve the dignity and credibility of DUN Sarawak institutions.

He said the suspension of the remainder of the conference proposed under the bill was aimed at restoring House discipline rather than restricting freedom of speech.