Ten‑minute war of words in Dewan Rakyat over Takiyuddin’s ‘munafik’ remark

Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan speaks during question and answer session at the Dewan Rakyat in Kuala Lumpur July 20, 2022. — Bernama pic

By Malay Mail

First Published: Monday, 19 Oct 2026 3:12 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 — Proceedings in the Dewan Rakyat turned heated today after a war of words broke out between government and opposition MPs over the use of the term “munafik”, allegedly directed at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

According to Berita Harian (BH), the exchange, which lasted nearly 10 minutes, began when RSN Rayer (PH–Jelutong) raised Standing Order 36(1), claiming that Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN–Kota Bharu) had used the word while debating the Supply Bill 2027. 

He argued that the term was offensive and inappropriate, particularly when aimed at the prime minister.

Rayer questioned why Deputy Speaker Alice Lau Kiong Yieng had allowed Takiyuddin to continue without intervening. 

“It is an offence for MPs to use offensive language. I heard him cite a verse from the Quran, followed by the word ‘munafik’ directed at the prime minister, and we just let it pass?” he was quoted as saying.

Takiyuddin, who is Perikatan Nasional’s chief whip, was reported to have earlier cited a hadith describing the traits of a munafik (hypocrite), before referring to the word waad (promise) used by Anwar in his Budget 2027 speech. 

Rayer repeatedly attempted to interject to raise a point of order but was ignored until Lau eventually halted Takiyuddin’s speech, BH reported.

The incident then drew the attention of Datuk Awang Hashim (PN–Pendang), who insisted that Rayer had misunderstood Takiyuddin’s remarks.

Lau later advised Rayer to submit a formal motion to the Speaker’s office for further action, saying: “I have already given guidance — file a motion and send it to the Speaker’s office. That is all.”