How did the bloc vote on the Sosma extension unfold?

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Dewan Rakyat Rejects Motion to Extend Sosma's 28-Day Detention Provision

The motion to extend the enforcement of sub-section 4(5) of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) 2012, which allows for a 28-day detention period, was not passed in the Dewan Rakyat. This outcome was determined by a bloc vote initiated by the Opposition bloc, which saw 86 Opposition Members of Parliament voting against the extension, while 84 MPs from the ruling coalition voted in favour. A total of 50 MPs were recorded as not present during the vote.
Opposition Bloc Secures Victory in Bloc Vote

The crucial bloc vote on the extension of Sosma's sub-section 4(5) was called by the Opposition, led by DAP's Teluk Intan MP Nga Kor Ming, and was permitted by Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Ramli Mohd Nor. The procedural step followed a request for a division vote, requiring at least 15 MPs to be present from the requesting bloc. The voting process commenced after a 10-minute adjournment of the Dewan Rakyat.
Objections Raised Against Sosma's Detention Powers

Several Opposition MPs voiced strong objections to the proposed extension, citing concerns about potential abuses of power and the Act's alignment with fundamental legal principles. Batu Kawan MP Kasthuriraani Patto argued that existing laws were sufficient for investigation and prosecution, and that Sosma's provisions for detention without trial, delayed evidence gathering, and prohibition of bail contradicted the principle of "innocent until proven guilty." She highlighted past detentions under Sosma, including that of Mohd Zulkifl Shafiei for allegedly channelling funds to a designated terrorist, Maria Chin Abdullah for nine days in solitary confinement, and the arrest of 12 individuals, including two DAP assemblymen, for alleged LTTE links.
Calls for Repeal and Concerns Over Power Abuse

Further opposition to the motion included calls from multiple MPs for the complete repeal of Sosma. Puchong MP Gobind Singh Deo supported these sentiments, expressing concern over potential power abuse and suggesting the implementation of specific mechanisms, such as bringing arrested individuals before a magistrate within a shorter timeframe, to allow for complaints regarding the misuse of provisions. This was echoed by other Opposition MPs who advocated for the Act's entire repeal, arguing that its existence was unnecessary and prone to abuse.
Home Minister Defends Sosma, Rejects Repeal Calls

Home Minister Hamzah Zainudin firmly rejected the calls to repeal Sosma, asserting that the Act remains necessary given the prevailing crime situations in the country. He characterized claims of power abuse as mere perceptions and assured that individuals would not be arrested solely based on their political beliefs or activities. Hamzah further contended that the failure to extend sub-section 4(5) would negatively impact the quality of police investigations, potentially leading to hurried inquiries due to the absence of the 28-day detention period.

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How did the bloc vote on the Sosma extension unfold?

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