One of the 12 step for parliamentary reform put forward by Lim Kit Siang both in 2004 and once again a couple weeks ago called for the live broadcasting of the Parliamentary session on TV.
The main reasons for this is to allow the public to see the democracy at work and also to view what their elected ministers of parliament (MP’s) are doing in the parliamentary session.
Of course this call has seen absolutely no response from the current government. Yet some few industrious people has somehow been able to provide the videos of the parliamentary debates online via services like Youtube. This has sparked a revolution of sorts as the everyday joe public with internet access could finally have a real and unfiltered view of the of the debate sessions.
Of course what we say dismayed, shocked and utterly stunned us as some portion of our so called MP’s were not up to the standard we have expected them to adhere to. From unbelievable antics like calling the opposition MP’s bodoh (idiot) to blatantly sexist remarks of bocor setiap bulan (liken to the menstrual cycle of women) these are what our elected MP’s were saying and doing in parliament. Be it as it may that these cases are only a small number occurrences and that these MP’s are actually doing their job most of the time, I for one cannot except that our MP are allowed to get away scot free with such blatant statements and ridiculous acts.
So after the tsunami of the 12 general election, changes have been touted and some are on the card at least for now. Therefore it is with some interest today that I read this article from The Star titled Call for live Parliament telecasts that refers to Sungai Petani MP Johari Abdul calls for parliamentary session to be telecasted live or delayed for the citizenry to follow the proceedings.
We want the public to know what the MPs speak on and how they conduct themselves,” said the PKR (Parti Keadilan Rakyat).
He said it was time for Malaysia to allow such telecast as happens in other countries.
He said he would make such proposal when the parliament convenes next month.
Johari said allowing rakyat to follow through the sittings would make MPs more accountable and serve the people better in their respective constituencies.
If Johari is serious in wanting to pursue for this matter, I would like to be the first person to wish him all the best. I think I can safely say on behalf of all Malaysians, that we want the parliament sessions to be broadcasted – live or slightly delayed and uncensored!
