The people’s reps should stop all the drama

I REFER to your front page report yesterday, “What’s up with KJ?” ( The Star, July 16.)

I was disappointed that the opposition Members of Parliament staged a walkout that created a lot of drama – which was viewed live on TV across the country, no less.

The reason for the walkout was apparently to protest the appointment of Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof, whose nomination letter was not processed in a timely fashion, according to Umno president and opposition leader Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and PAS secretary-general Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan.

One opposition figure who did not walk out was Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin, which caused much wagging of tongues and speculation about, “What’s up with KJ?”

I noticed many Malaysians expressing their frustration on social media, saying the opposition were “clowns staging sandiwara” (a drama) rather than voicing their objections properly during the debate session after the opening of the 14th Parliament on Monday.

I sincerely hope the ruling party and the opposition will articulately debate key issues in a mature manner rather than blindly opposing things without much justification.

We want leaders from both sides to behave with maturity and stop trading insults or passing unkind remarks on race, religion and women.

I appeal to elected Members of Parliament, especially the opposition, to heed the Speaker to ensure a smooth flow of discussion in the august House and to maintain decorum.

If MPs do not obey directives, it would be difficult for the Speaker to run the day’s business effectively. If some MPs like being “out” rather than “in”, then voters should decide to keep them out permanently.