Ling stresses the importance of greater transparency in Sarawak’s administration, particularly by strengthening checks and balances within the state government.
SIBU (March 7): Sibu MP Oscar Ling has hopes that the passing of the Parliamentary Services Bill will inspire the Sarawak government to implement its own democratic reforms.
He stressed the importance of greater transparency in Sarawak’s administration, particularly by strengthening checks and balances within the state government.
Ling also urged for greater empowerment of the opposition, allowing them to play a more significant role in overseeing and counterbalancing the state government’s power within the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
“I welcome the passing of the bill, acknowledging that while there are still areas for future improvement, it is a crucial milestone in Malaysia’s democratic progress. It ensures that Malaysia’s democratic system continues to be refined and strengthened.
“The passing of the Parliamentary Services Bill by the Malaysian Parliament is a significant reform under the unity government led by (Prime Minister) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. After 33 years, Malaysia has reinstated the Parliamentary Services Act, achieving the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches—a major milestone for the country.
“I hope that the significance of this reform—especially in improving governance and efficiency—would encourage the Sarawak state government to introduce its own democratic reforms,” he said in a statement today.
Ling also outlined four key aspects of the Parliamentary Services Act aimed at ensuring parliamentary independence: strengthening the separation of powers, safeguarding Parliament’s independent operation, granting it autonomy over its internal affairs, and allowing full control over its administrative and financial budgets.
With the passing of the bill, he noted that Parliament will no longer be under government jurisdiction.
“The highest authority in Parliament will now be the Parliamentary Services Council led by the Speakers of both the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara.
“This change strengthens Parliament’s role in checking and balancing the government, ensuring that as a legislative body, it can limit government power and oversee its actions more effectively.”
Ling also addressed public concerns, acknowledging that many may wonder how this reform directly impacts ordinary citizens.
“First, enhanced government oversight will improve efficiency and prevent abuse of power; second, the government will have to place greater emphasis on public opinion when formulating policies, as it will need to engage in more consultations and seek broader support to pass laws in a more independent Parliament,” he said.
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