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By Mihar Dias Copyright December 2023
In a recent session of the Dewan Rakyat, our august assembly witnessed an unfortunate exchange between Members of Parliament, reflecting a decline in parliamentary decorum.
The use of derogatory terms like "macai" and "celaka" during a debate on the Human Rights Commission (Amendment) Bill 2023 raises concerns about the state of political discourse in our nation.
The incident began with RSN Rayer expressing his concerns over human rights violations allegedly occurring during the tenure of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin. While robust debate is a hallmark of a healthy democracy, the descent into name-calling and personal attacks detracts from the substantive issues at hand.
The use of such language not only tarnishes the reputation of the individuals involved but also undermines the dignity of the parliamentary institution. MPs are elected representatives entrusted with the responsibility to address the concerns of their constituents, and their conduct should reflect the values of respect and decorum.
The exchange also highlights the polarization within the Dewan Rakyat, where opposing sides seem more inclined to engage in verbal sparring than constructive dialogue. This raises questions about the ability of our elected officials to work together for the collective good of the nation.
Deputy Speaker Alice Lau's intervention to enforce the withdrawal of derogatory terms is a step in the right direction. However, it is imperative that MPs reflect on their roles as public servants and guardians of our democratic principles. Respectful and substantive debates should be the cornerstone of parliamentary proceedings, setting an example for the nation.
As citizens, we must demand a higher standard of conduct from our elected representatives. The repercussions of ungentlemanly behaviour in the August assembly extend beyond the parliamentary walls, influencing public perception and eroding trust in the democratic process.
It is incumbent upon MPs to rise above personal animosities and focus on addressing the critical issues facing our nation. The use of inflammatory language not only distracts from the matters at hand but also diminishes the public's confidence in the ability of parliamentarians to govern responsibly.
In conclusion, the incident in the Dewan Rakyat serves as a stark reminder that the onus is on our elected representatives to uphold the principles of democracy and parliamentary decorum. As citizens, we must hold them accountable for their conduct and insist on a more respectful and constructive discourse within our august assembly.
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