Shouting match in Dewan as MPs trade barbs after 'monkey' remark

The Dewan Rakyat session today turned rowdy after Hulu Langat MP Mohd Sany Hamzan was accused of acting "like a monkey in the forest" by Arau MP Shahidan Kassim. 

Shahidan had said that his debate on the Supply Bill 2023 was repeatedly interrupted by Sany who did not ask for leave to intervene. 

"I feel sorry for Hulu Langat whose behaviour is worse than that of a monkey in the forest," he said at the end of his speech. 

Sany repeatedly called for Shahidan to retract his remark. 

"Using the word 'monkey'," he added. "Those who have been here for a long time should set an example. I ask that he retract his statement. 

"Even I don't use vulgar words anymore." 

Parit Buntar MP Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki then stood to reprimand Sany, and was told not to interfere as the matter was between him and Shahidan. 

"Right now, I am not satisfied with Arau. Not Parit Buntar. This is between me and Arau. 

"Speak nicely. I don't use inappropriate words. Ask Arau to take it back," Sany said. 

Speaker Johari Abdul however only intervened after he was asked to do so. 

"I want to see how many people are going to shout," Johari said. "Because the people are making their own judgments. 

"Please continue, the people are watching." 

The situation eventually subsided after Johari asked Shahidan to repeat his statement for clarity. 

"I said don't behave like a monkey in the forest," Shahidan said.