Tang: ‘The new government has passed the test basically.’
AS the government of Malaysia for 100 days, the unity government has passed the test, says political commentator Tang Ah Chai. Nevertheless there is still room for improvement,
The new government is concerned with the day-to-day issues affecting people especially the low income group, he points out.
“Based on the performance of the new government, I give them 65 out of 100. The new government has passed the test basically but still need to work hard for improvements,” Tang tells Sin Chew Daily.
The new government is rated a pass as the unity government is successful in forming a cabinet transcending political parties after encountering several setbacks.
“With the presence of anti-hopping law , the new government is also blessed by a confidence motion in the Dewan Rakyat. The political landscape is said to be stable and normal now,” he says.
The six state elections this year will be the next challenge for the unity government, he says, adding that they have also handled the political crisis in Sabah well.
Asked about the immediate task and the long term plan of the new government, Tang says the government should have good governance in place, propose policies and measures that allow the government and opposition to function smoothly.
The government should disclose a more concrete objective, policy and timeline based on Malaysia Madani, he says.
“The same for political reform. A concrete should be unveiled to set priorities,” he notes.
Tang reminds the ministers to be people-friendly by setting their priorities to resolve problems faced by the people instead of showing off. The ministers should also be careful in their comments and decisions.
“On job appointments, the government should promote meritocracy and stay away from nepotism and cronyism. An objective evaluation should be applied instead of a forceful implementation.
“Otherwise, the practice of former governments will be inherited and continued, which is in contradiction with the Madani Malaysia concept,” he says.
Prof Dr Shamrahayu: ‘The emphasis given on economic issues is vital.’
A 100-day period is not a really a long time, but somehow seems enough to prove Anwar’s commitment and determination to make Malaysia roar again as an Asian Tiger through his Malaysia Madani, says a Bernama report.
Steps toward reviving and strengthening the country’s economy were taken and expedited with the formation of a government that is strongly centred on integrity and accountability, and consistent in the war against corruption which Anwar’s pledged as soon as he was sworn in.
The emphasis given on these matters is vital for the government and it is obviously prominent during this 100-day period, law lecturer from the International Islamic University Malaysia, Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Shamrahayu Ab Aziz tells Bernama.
“Maybe people will say that the government is slow in terms of implementation, or in introducing new programmes or initiatives for the people, for example, but the Prime Minister’s strategy in this context is important because he needs, first and foremost, a government that understands the aspirations, the things he wants to achieve,” she says. – Media in Arms
