Opposition fails in bid to block Sosma extension.
The motion to pass the extension of subsection 4(5) of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) has succeeded in Parliament today.
The opposition failed in its attempt to block the motion via a bloc vote as 111 MPs were in favour of it, while 88 voted against it and 21 were absent from the sitting.
The bloc vote ensued after Tanjung Malim MP Chang Lih Kang raised Standing Order 46, after more than 15 MPs stood after a voice vote was called by Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Azhar Azizan Harun.
“As there are more than 15 MPs who stood up demanding a bloc vote, thus following Standing Order 46(4), I authorise a bloc vote take place now,” he said.
Earlier today, Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin retabled a motion that will extend the detention period of suspects under Sosma, specifically under the sub-section 4(5).
Sub-section 4(5) of Sosma enables police to detain a person suspected of being involved in terrorist activities for a period not exceeding 28 days for investigations.
Opposition MPs who are against the clause said that detention without trial is against the Federal Constitution and fundamental rights.