No law permits Cabinet posts divided by race and religion, DAP tells PAS

DAP lawmaker Ramkarpal Singh has firmly pushed back against suggestions that Cabinet positions should be allocated based on religious and ethnic lines, stating there is no legal basis for such an arrangement in Malaysia.

The rebuke comes after the PAS president's recent remarks proposing that ministerial portfolios held by non-Muslim ministers be limited or restricted. Singh characterised the proposal as a divisive move that runs counter to the principles of inclusive governance.

Under Malaysia's federal structure, Cabinet appointments fall within the purview of the Prime Minister, who selects ministers based on political considerations and merit rather than religious or racial criteria. Constitutional arrangements do not provide for the segregation of Cabinet posts by religion or ethnicity.

The exchange highlights ongoing tensions within Malaysia's ruling coalition regarding the composition and oversight of ministerial roles. DAP, as a component party in the government, has consistently advocated for merit-based appointment processes and policies that do not discriminate based on race or religion.

The matter underscores broader debates within Malaysian politics about the balance between religious considerations and secular governance principles in the administration of the country.