SO much has been said and written about the bad behaviour of some of our parliamentarians that I just wonder how on earth they were elected as people’s representatives. Using coarse language, passing obscene remarks, thumping their tables and exhibiting lewd gestures are the norm when these MPs take to the floor in the Dewan Rakyat.

Time and again the Speaker or his deputy has tried to bring order to the House, but apparently failed to contain the rowdy behaviour of these MPs, irrespective of whether they are in Barisan Nasional or in the opposition.

Those who attend parliamentary sessions, including students, pensioners, government servants, the public and foreigners, expecting a sombre and educated discussion on government policies, will be aghast and disenchanted at the vulgarities, racial slurs and the airing of personal vendettas.

Obviously, those who are soft-spoken, polite, courteous and non-aggressive have no place in our Dewan Rakyat.

One thing that perplexes me is that if the same MP, with all the negative characteristics, is appointed to a cabinet post, his behaviour and mentality would change dramatically.

Polished arguments, articulate expressions and gestures and the ability to carry himself with dignity and finesse shall then be his hallmark for holding a high position in society.

Such traits can be achieved if our MPs make a concerted effort to acquire them. Leaders such as Gandhi, Nehru, Harold Wilson, John F. Kennedy and many other top politicians were fine examples who, to my knowledge, did not resort to name-calling and were absolutely gracious in speech and mannerism. They might not accept the other person’s view but they were never rude.

I believe it is high time that our prime minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, called a special parliamentary session involving all MPs of both sides to find ways of bringing back dignity to the Dewan Rakyat and implore those MPs who had resorted to profanities and vulgarities not to repeat them.

The saying “give instructions to a wise man and he may be yet wiser” holds true in this instance.

SYED OMAR MOHAMED, Kluang

Source: NST – July 23, 2008