Watchers expecting more from MPs at Parliament

PETALING JAYA: As the first meeting of the Parliament is set to convene on Monday, MPs from both sides of the divide are gearing up for another showdown.

However, NGOs and political observers are expressing their concern about the performance of lawmakers given the dismal quality of debates in the previous sitting.

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak political analyst Dr Jeniri Amir said opposition lawmakers were not critical and vocal enough during debates.

“They need to criticise but also suggest ideas on new policies and steps that should be taken by the government,” he said.

Dr Jeniri added that it was also important for Pakatan ministers to fulfil their promises.

“Stop attacking the previous administration. What people want from the government is for them to walk the talk. Putting Malaysia back on track, creating more job opportunities and solving problems are what needs to be done,” he said, pointing out that all MPs should do a better job for the pay and perks they were getting.

Bersih 2.0 chairman Thomas Fann said that MPs must be paid adequately so that they could dedicate their time to serve their voters.

“But they have to deliver. Personally, I think most of our MPs still have a long way to go when it comes to their grasp of legislative Bills, debating skills and statesmanship.

“I say this in comparison to elected representatives like Britain, Germany, the United States or Australia. Only several are up to the mark,” said Fann.

Universiti Malaya political analyst Assoc Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said an MP must be able to ensure that people-centric issues were brought up.

Dr Awang also said that MPs from both sides need to improve their discipline during debates.

“They need to distance themselves from immature statements that can be deemed as unwise,” he said.

Pertubuhan Sahabat Erat Dan Amanat Rakyat Malaysia president Nazrin Norani said the attendance of all MPs should be made available publicly so it could be scrutinised.