Recently, as quoted by Sinar Daily, Merdeka Centre Senior Researcher Fakrurrazi Rashid reminded the opposition bloc in our parliament to add value to the debate in Dewan Rakyat by raising policy issues in a more structured manner that will lead to problem solving. He further reiterated that the opposition’s duty is to act as an effective check and balance so as to form a mature democracy in Malaysia.
For a better understanding of the definition and importance of ‘checks and balances’, constitution-unit.com is a good reference. So far, for the past few months, I do not think that our opposition has understood its crucial role in providing that kind of checks and balances to bring forth positive policies that can really move our nation forward. What seems to be happening is mere criticism of the government and a challenge to topple the unity government.
I asked myself why this was happening even months after the government had been formed. I came to the conclusion that maybe our opposition lacks an understanding of what their job is. After all, they have never been in the opposition bloc before, as Malaysia has been under the same party rule for more than six decades after her independence. So, for the progress of our nation and the rakyat’s confidence in our parliament to be established, please know your job as the opposition in our parliament and do it well.
Let us all respect our king’s wisdom in calling for a unity government to be formed in this multi-racial, multi-religious nation. Let us heed Sultan Ibrahim’s call, "Enough is enough" on plots to topple the government.
The rakyat has spoken through the ballot box since last November. We want all our elected representatives to work together, be ready to engage in productive debates, and bring stability to our nation. Our population of more than 30 million wants our nation to not only recover but also shine brightly internationally.
So, dear elected representatives, please know your jobs, both as the government and the opposition bloc, and do your jobs well. Please put aside all selfish agendas and think of the millions of citizens who are placing their trust in all of you.
God bless each of you with wisdom and hearts to serve.
Mei Wong is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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