FridayOL

PETALING JAYA: Pendang Member of Parliament (MP) Awang Hashim has firmly denied allegations that he challenged another MP to a physical altercation outside Parliament last week. The denial comes amidst ongoing scrutiny following his suspension from the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) for a period of 10 days on Monday.

Awang, in a statement released earlier today, clarified that the reports were a misrepresentation of events. He stated that he never issued a challenge to fight and that the situation was misinterpreted. While acknowledging a heated exchange with his colleague, he emphasized that it did not escalate to the point of a direct threat or challenge.

“The reports circulating are inaccurate and misleading. I want to be clear: I did not challenge anyone to a fight. There was a disagreement, a discussion, but nothing more,” Awang asserted. He added that the suspension from Parliament was a consequence of his actions during a parliamentary debate, separate from the alleged incident outside the building.

The incident in question occurred last week following a particularly contentious session in the Dewan Rakyat. While details remain somewhat unclear, sources suggest a disagreement between Awang and another MP led to a raised voice and a brief, tense moment outside the Parliament building. Initial reports suggested Awang had made provocative remarks, prompting the fight claims.

The suspension from the Dewan Rakyat has drawn mixed reactions. Some have criticized Awang's conduct, arguing that it reflects poorly on the dignity of the Parliament. Others have expressed concern over the length of the suspension, suggesting it could hinder his ability to represent his constituents effectively. The Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Azhar Azizan Harun, has defended the decision, stating that it was necessary to maintain order and decorum within the legislative body.

Awang’s denial aims to quell the rumours and restore his reputation. He reiterated his commitment to serving the people of Pendang and participating constructively in parliamentary proceedings. He also called for responsible reporting, urging media outlets to verify information before publishing it, particularly when it involves sensitive matters such as allegations of misconduct.

The incident highlights the increasing tensions within Malaysian politics and the challenges of maintaining civility and respect among elected officials. It also underscores the importance of accurate and fair reporting in shaping public perception and ensuring accountability within the political system. Further investigation and clarification are expected as the matter continues to unfold.

Moving forward, Awang Hashim is expected to focus on addressing the concerns of his constituents while navigating the restrictions imposed by his suspension. The situation serves as a reminder of the high standards expected of elected officials and the potential consequences of failing to uphold those standards.