King opens Parliament session focusing on 13th Malaysia Plan and reform bills

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 — The first meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament began Monday with the Royal Address by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, focusing on national development and key reforms including a bill to limit the prime minister's term.

His Majesty officiated the opening of both the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara, with the ceremony broadcast live from 10 a.m. via official media channels.

The Royal Address is expected to cover various important matters, including the start of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), national development, public welfare, and the economy.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, his deputies, cabinet members, and foreign representatives are scheduled to attend the ceremony.

Before the address, the King will receive the Royal Salute by the Main Guard of Honour at Parliament Square.

The Dewan Rakyat session will last 20 days, featuring the Motion of Thanks and debate on the Royal Address over seven days starting Jan. 20.

Ministerial question sessions are set for the third week from Feb. 4 to 10, with bill presentations and other government business in the final six days starting Feb. 23.

Parliament will not sit on Feb. 2-3 for Federal Territory Day and Thaipusam, and from Feb. 16-19 for Chinese New Year and the start of Ramadan.

The Dewan Negara session will run for 13 days beginning Feb. 23.

Key bills expected include one limiting the prime minister's term to no more than 10 years or two full terms, and another separating the powers of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor.

Other bills mentioned are the Ombudsman Bill 2025, one related to the Freedom of Information Act, the second reading of the International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation Bill 2025, and the postponed Urban Renewal Bill 2025.

The Prime Minister previously announced institutional reform measures would be implemented in this parliamentary session.