KUALA LUMPUR – Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul today mandated that all 222 parliamentarians undergo compulsory health checks by November 11 this year.
Those who fail to comply will have their names posted on the Dewan Rakyat’s website for “disobedience”, he said.
“The parliamentarians have until November 11 to complete these health checks.
“I would also like to congratulate those who underwent their health checks last year and commend the Health Ministry for their cooperation.
“These checks have been instrumental in detecting lawmakers’ health statuses at an early stage, enabling them to take immediate preventive measures,” he said when addressing this morning’s sitting.
Johari also said that no excuses or exceptions would be tolerated, and a letter detailing this directive has been distributed to all MPs.
“If any MPs fail to undergo this check, their names will be promptly published on the Parliament website.
“These health checks can be conducted at parliament clinics or any private facilities. MPs with queries about this directive may consult the head of the parliamentary clinic,” he added.
The order received a positive reception at Dewan Rakyat this morning, with Datuk Seri Moktar Radin (Kinabatangan-BN) noting that those who oppose it may not be eligible to contest any election.
“Yes, I’ll ensure that. I’ll inform the party chiefs,” Johari quipped in response.
On July 12, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni addressed the issue during the 13th Asean and 10th Perak Health Congress on Primary Health Care in Ipoh, encouraging all parliamentarians to undergo regular health screenings.
The focus on health checks intensified following the passing of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub on July 24 last year.
He was rushed to the hospital after experiencing nausea and vomiting, where he was confirmed to have suffered from an aneurysm. Despite undergoing surgery, he unfortunately passed away.
The late minister introduced the “Payung Rahmah” initiative to reduce the cost of living for the lower-income group (B40) and hard-core poor.
Just last week, Transport Minister Anthony Loke appeared to struggle with his breathing during the ministry’s question time in the Dewan Rakyat.
Loke, while addressing questions from Wong Chen (Subang-PH), appeared visibly short of breath, occasionally patting his chest. His deputy, Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, subsequently took over, responding to Wong’s inquiries.
However, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said on July 12 that Loke’s shortness of breath was not linked to a heart attack but instead to his fitness.
He said, Loke was in a hurry to get to Parliament because of traffic congestion. He hurried to enter the hall, just in time for him to answer questions. – July 17, 2024