New openness in Gov't and how
'we could do better'
A. Thoughts and reflections of 2004
The general elections have resulted in a stronger mandate for the BN under a new Prime
Minister. This has put to rest any remaining doubts over a post-Mahathir leadership. The
swift abolition of Rotation of the CM post immediately after the elections has also
brought to rest a 1994 power sharing formula that has served its purpose.
2. In Sabah, the political scenario under the new leadership in Sabah has
seen less politicking. Politics no longer dominate the State mainstream. Instead, the
people yearn for a better livelihood with an emphasis on their:
a) economic well being,
b) children's education, and
c) security and protection for their families
B. National Trends
3. The national leadership has sent out enough signals to the
people and the media that it is more open to a public discussion of issues. SUHAKAM, for
instance, has become more assertive and open in their views of matters affecting the
people. As SUHAKAM consists of credible personalities, their views carry more weight than
some self-appointed NGOs.
4. In line with the new openness seen in government, even the RTM
has aired live telecast of Debat Perdana featuring a mix of government and opposition
leaders and trade unionist. Such openness was unthinkable until recently.
5. In the context of Sabah, this new openness brings to mind the
only Sabah book that remains banned. Most people have not had the chance to read the book
"The Golden Son of The Kadazan" published soon after the air crash at Sembulan
on June 6, 1976 that killed the then Chief Minister and other top leaders. More than a
generation has been born 28 years ever since that Double 6 tragedy. The lifting of the ban
on the book deserves due consideration so that the younger generation does not lose sight
of the 1976 tragedy and its historical perspective.
C. How Sabah could do better...next page 2 |
