Chong Chieng Jen should know that he must act wisely and strategically, especially when he has only YB Violet Yong alongside him in the Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) to challenge the GPS-dominated government benches.

There is nothing wrong with criticising the government. In fact, questioning the government and holding it accountable are essential duties of elected representatives. However, such criticism must be made responsibly and strategically.

The government benches, dominated by GPS representatives, may be waiting for even the slightest mistake to provide grounds for the Speaker to order Chong to leave the chamber. The DUN is not a circus, but neither should it become a place where legitimate opposition voices are silenced. The people elected their representatives to speak up for them, raise public concerns and hold the government accountable.

Unfortunately, Chong's conduct has disappointed those who expected him to represent the people effectively in the DUN. Rather than allowing GPS to enjoy an easy ride, he should focus on raising substantive issues that matter to the people of Sarawak.

The Speaker must also exercise his authority fairly and responsibly. The position should not be used to suppress legitimate criticism or disadvantage opposition representatives. At the same time, Chong should understand the importance of parliamentary procedure and conduct himself in a manner that strengthens his arguments rather than gives the government an opportunity to sideline him.

Proceedings in the DUN are recorded in the Hansard, which serves as an official record for future reference. Chong should be mindful that his words and actions will be documented and may be scrutinised by the public.

The people expect their elected representatives to speak with purpose, raise important issues and defend the public interest. They do not expect their voices to be weakened by avoidable mistakes or confrontations that distract from the issues that truly matter.

Chong must therefore act more wisely, exercise better judgment and fulfil his responsibilities as an opposition representative. The people deserve a strong and effective voice in the DUN, not an opposition that inadvertently gives the government a free ride.

Voon Lee Shan
President
Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK)