A commotion erupted in the Dewan Rakyat when Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli called MP Datuk Awang Solahuddin Hashim a “clown”.
Awang interrupted Rafizi’s speech multiple times, despite being asked not to do so.
Rafizi then said, “If you want to be a clown, you can do it with another minister.”
Awang stood up, saying the comment was malicious.
The Speaker ordered Awang to rest for two days, but several opposition MPs defended Awang.
Rafizi withdrew his remark, but Awang refused to leave the Dewan.
The Speaker became angry and repeated his order for Awang to leave.
“I have told you repeatedly not to interject. I will be seen as unable to control the Dewan as the rakyat outside wants to hear what we discussed. That is why Pendang, you should leave today and tomorrow,” said Johari.
The MP will return to the lower house on Monday.
The Standing Orders state that a person may only speak up during a parliamentarian or minister’s allotted time if they allow it.