Discourse, Politeness and Ethnic Sensitivities in Malaysian Parliament

Abstract

The Malaysian Parliament comprises the King (Yang Di-Pertuan Agung), the Senate (Dewan Negara) and the House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat). The Parliament is the highest legislative authority that formulates laws applicable to the nation as a whole. It is responsible for drafting bills, passing federal laws, making amendments to the constitution, examining the government’s policies and, approving federal government expenditure and new taxes. Participation in parliamentary debates is exclusively meant for Members of Parliament (MPs) who have competed and won in the general elections at their respective parliamentary constituencies. The Parliament serves as a forum to debate and discuss issues pertaining to national interests.