KOTA KINABALU: Former Foreign Minister Tan Sri Anifah Aman is among the names being mentioned as a potential appointment for the Speaker of the Senate ahead of the upcoming parliamentary session.
Another person mentioned is a former Member of Parliament for Bukit Mas, Datuk Mutang Tagal.
The position of Speaker of the Senate became vacant last month following the appointment of Tun Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar as the Governor of Sarawak on January 26, replacing Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud.
It is understood that the announcement of the new Speaker of the Senate is expected to be made on February 19.
According to NST, based on speculation, Mutang is the top choice for the position.
Mutang served as the Member of Parliament for Bukit Mas (now known as Lawas) from 1982 to 1990.
He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Malaya.
Meanwhile, Anifah served as the Member of Parliament for Beaufort from 1999 to 2004 and as the Member of Parliament for Kimanis from 2004 to 2013.
He holds a Bachelor of Philosophy, Economics, and Law degree from the University of Buckingham.
“However, Mutang and Anifah could not be reached to confirm the matter,” NST reported.
Previously, an online portal reported that a former Member of Parliament from Sarawak, who served from 1982 to 1990, was rumored to be appointed as the President of the Senate to replace Wan Junaidi.
It is also understood that the individual with a legal background has received the appointment letter but is awaiting the official announcement on February 19.
Last week, Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil said the government would make an announcement regarding the appointment of the Speaker of the Senate in the near future.
Fahmi said the cabinet has discussed the matter and has decided on the chosen name for the position.
