The Unity Government Convention on Sunday has created a new political beginning for the country and the three-week Parliament beginning next Monday should flesh out further the steps to develop into an united, progressive and prosperous Malaysia where we can be a role model to the world of inter-ethnic, inter-religious, inter-cultural and inter-civilisation dialogue, understanding, tolerance and harmony.
We have only taken first few steps in this long journey to reset and return to the original nation-building principes of a plural Malaysia agreed to by the nation’s founding fathers (which included the first three Prime Ministers who were also UMNO Presidents) but there are many obstacles and forces which want such efforts to fail.
This is where Parliament has a very important role to play, and as a commitment to reset and return to the original nation-building principles of a plural Malaysia agreed to by the nation’s founding fathers, the oath of Members of Parliament should be amended to uphold and advance the five Rukun Negara principles.
The Rukun Negara in full states:
“WHEREAS OUR COUNTRY, MALAYSIA nurtures the ambitions of:
- Achieving a more perfect unity amongst the whole of the society;
- Preserving a democratic way of life;
- Creating a just society where the prosperity of the country can be enjoyed together in a fair and equitable manner;
- Guaranteeing a liberal approach towards her rich and varied cultural traditions; and
- Building a progressive society that will make use of science and modern technology.
“WE, residents of Malaysia, pledge our united efforts to attain these ends guided by these principles:
- BELIEVE IN GOD
- LOYALTY TO KING AND COUNTRY
- SUPREMACY OF THE CONSTITUTION
- THE RULE OF LAW
- COURTESY AND MORALITY”
Such an amendment to the MP’s oath is important as there were MPs who refused to declare their support or allegiance to the five Rukun Negara principles for an united, progressive, prosperous and plural Malaysia who were appointed as Cabinet Ministers or to high offices in the previous Parliament.
This will be a test of the patriotism of Malaysian leaders to the concept of a Malaysia as envisioned by our founding fathers.