The third force
The “third force” should initiate this as they will bring into the picture a new level of credibility and assurance that is needed.
K. Haridas, The Malaysian Insider
There is an increasing disconnect between the citizen and the politicians in power. Their lack in terms of the popular vote at the last eeneral election underlines this reality.
Despite their poor performance, there has been no soul searching nor any attempts to make a difference. On the other hand there is perhaps a glee and confidence that with continued gerrymandering they would be able to hang on to power.
To expect a change through the electoral process when all things are stacked against the voter shows how skewed the present system is. Our only hope remains in the possibility of a “third force”, a group of people who will give leadership to a new and inclusive future.
As we view events in our sitting rooms covering happenings in Iraq, Syria, South Sudan, Egypt and Yemen we should recognise that dialogue, consensus-building and seeking agreement are significant options when compared to violence, arms, deaths, explosions and the involvement of third parties.
Everyone is a loser and all will have to begin again at ground zero. The costs are heavy and history teaches us nothing.
We know what is wrong and what causes us concern in Malaysia. This is important but more critical than this is to articulate what we need if our democracy is to move to the next level of involvement in today’s fast and changing environment.
This calls for new approaches, an open mind and an inclusive partnership where we work together for the common good of all. We have to move from a mindset of fear and lack to one of embracing abundance and responding with care and compassion knowing that together we can provide for more than the needs in our society.
Some of the areas of concern that needs to be addressed include the following:
A fundamental belief and commitment to dialogue, consultations and respect for one another.
The need for patient consensus building.
A singular commitment to Malaysia beyond ethnic priorities and concerns. The belief that what is good for Malaysians as a whole would be good for all ethnic groups. To move away from a race based mind set.
A re-emphasis on the doctrine of separation of powers between the executive, the legislature and the judiciary. This had to be clearly defined and put in place.
Powers be given to independent commissions namely, the Election Commission, Suhakam, MACC and such other bodies so that they can effectively play the check and balance role in governance.
Ensure fair delineation of constituencies and to correct glaring imbalance between constituencies – urban vs urban and urban vs rural. Our electoral system must be fair and just and this calls for an honest conversation so that power evolves from fairness.
Implementation of the findings of the police Commission – a response to security needs
Independent Judicial Commission for the appointment of Judges; integrity of the judiciary.
Review of Pota and the Sedition Act. Bills drafted by the A-G’s chambers to be sent to other key stakeholders like civil society groups, relevant NGOs, the Bar Council etc, before being submitted to Parliament.
Consider the setting up of an interfaith body and a race relations body, all of which will help with the ongoing dialogue. We need not fear these bodies and their consultative status.
Independence of the Attorney-General and Auditor-General so that they become watchdogs with teeth.
A review of the present Education Policy. To provide choice in the use of language for the study of Maths and Science at the secondary school level.
Doing away with archaic laws like the Printing and Publications Act, the Official Secrets Act and others. That all antiquated acts be reviewed. New laws covering the Freedom of Information Act and the Right to Information be tabled.
To open the dialogue with East Malaysia with regards agreement and seek feedback and consensus on the Malaysia Agreement.
Review the Civil Service Commission so that a more equitable representation of Malaysian’s in the service is identified.
Just as we have qualified lawyers, doctors, pilots to ensure that politician with knowledge, qualifications and expertise helm and provide leadership.
Parliament and the way bills are pushed through in record time and the lack of committee inspection has to be reviewed. This is an insult to our Democratic Institutions.
To balance the relationship between the Shariah and civil jurisdiction and consider ways in which this does not espouse ethnic and religious conflicts and misunderstanding.
