Let there be order in the House at all times

The Star

THE current Parliament, the 13th in our nation’s history, began the first meeting of its second session on Monday with the traditional opening by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong followed by his Royal Address.

The King’s broad-ranging speech, also by tradition, is premised on the policies of the government of the day, and will essentially set the tone for the debate at the current sitting.

There are many long-time MPs, on both sides of the political divide, who know what all these traditions are about.

Even rookie MPs would have been brought up to speed by now on what is expected of the YBs in the august House.

Which is why the boycott — call it partial or whatever — by the opposition Pakatan Rakyat, has left a bad taste in the mouth.

We have embraced parliamentary democracy since Merdeka. Whatever the system’s weaknesses, we have, to a great extent, played by the rules.

The MPs gain attendance into the Dewan Rakyat because they were voted in by the people in the respective constituencies.

They may quibble about the election process but the fact remains that they have accepted the verdict and they now enjoy all the perks and privileges of being parliamentarians.

And they must likewise fulfil all the responsibilities entrusted upon them.

Which is why we do not condone any irresponsible behaviour by any MP, whatever his or her party flag, who diminishes the dignity of the House by behaving outlandishly, in deeds or in words.

The battle of wits must be such that we can disagree without being disagreeable, that we can be passionate without being offensive.

There are some battles that extend beyond the House, where political partisanship is the only option. So be it.

However, there must be order in the House in all instances when respect and bipartisanship must rule the day.

To the Pakatan Rakyat MPs, they must bear the consequences of their actions in not wearing the traditional ceremonial uniform on the opening day, declining to attend the lunch hosted by the King and boycotting yesterday’s sitting.

These actions may have gotten them the attention they seek, but have they contributed anything towards turning Parliament into a venerable institution where those elected by the people will actually be there to speak for the people?

By the same token, this principle extends to all the legislative assemblies where the seat of power is different in some states.

In the Pakatan-ruled states, Barisan Nasional must also behave responsibly as the opposition.

Let there be order in the House.