Opening of Malaysia’s 15th Parliament's Fifth Session with Royal Address

This Monday marks the official commencement of the Fifth Session of Malaysia’s 15th Parliament, highlighted by the Royal Address delivered by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, during the opening ceremony. His Majesty will present the address to both the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara, outlining key priority areas for the nation.

The address is anticipated to delve into significant issues such as national development, public welfare, and economic strategies in line with the introduction of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), a comprehensive five-year framework that will extend from this year to 2030.

The ceremony will be broadcast live, beginning at 10 a.m. across various official media channels, local television, and online platforms.

Ahead of the Royal Address at the Dewan Rakyat, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong will conduct an inspection of the Royal Guard of Honour from the 1st Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, stationed at Sungai Besi Camp.

Notable attendees include Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, alongside various cabinet members and heads of foreign delegations.

As per the official Parliament schedule, the Dewan Rakyat’s session will initially address the Motion of Thanks on the Royal Address, followed by a seven-day debate commencing January 20. The session will continue with closing statements from relevant ministers in the third week, running from February 4 to 10. The final six days of the session, starting February 23, will center on bills and government matters.

The Parliament will not convene on February 2 and 3 in recognition of Federal Territories Day and Thaipusam, nor during February 16 to 19 on account of Chinese New Year and early Ramadan festivities.

The Dewan Negara will subsequently receive 13 sitting days starting February 23.

Expected legislative initiatives during this session of the Dewan Rakyat include a proposal for a bill that limits the Prime Minister's tenure to a maximum of 10 years or two full terms, along with a bill distinguishing between the roles of the Public Prosecutor and the Attorney General. These reforms were outlined by the Prime Minister on January 5.

Other legislative proposals include the Ombudsman Bill 2025, as well as the Freedom of Information Bill. The session will also revisit earlier postponed matters, including the second reading of the International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation Bill 2025 and the Urban Renewal Bill 2025.