The third debate will take place in Miami, though the Republican National Committee has yet to specify the venue or exact time.

Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul had earlier promised to give them space to speak on the case.

The former economic affairs minister lays down a condition that Rafizi Ramli must first prove he has implemented policies to boost the nation's economy.

The debate will be the first chance for voters to see the Republican presidential candidates square off against each other.

The Umno president says the ideas mooted during the Perdana Debate should be made into national policy.

An analyst rubbishes the idea of a 'comeback' for Najib although another says a debate may be a good idea given the duo's experience in various government positions.

While debates are part and parcel of a democratic system, one has to assess how a particular debate resonates with the overall political, social and economic system.

Analysts question the relevance not only of the topic to the larger Malaysian public, but also that of the two 'friendly foes'.

Budget 2022 is scheduled to be discussed at the policy level for seven days, and will be wound up by the ministers or deputy ministers of the relevant ministries for four days before being discussed at the committee level for 13 days.

DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng has agreed to the challenge nearly three weeks after it was issued by the MCA president in Parliament.

The third reading of the budget was passed with 111 votes against 108 and one absentee.

The trio will be placed in a special room to follow the last leg of debate on the 2021 budget.