Trump in KL: Waytha seeks special parliamentary debate

 

Malaysian Advancement Party (MAP) president P Waythamoorthy has urged Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to hold a special parliamentary debate on United States President Donald Trump’s attendance at the Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur next month.

He noted that the decision to invite Trump had sparked profound objections among Malaysians and that it was only fitting for the matter to be deliberated in the nation’s highest democratic forum.

Waytha proposed that the debate be scheduled for Oct 6, the first day of the upcoming parliamentary sitting.

“Parliament is not merely a chamber of government business; it is the heartbeat of our democracy, where truth is tested by argument and policies are measured against conscience,” he said.

ADS

He stressed that such a debate would serve several vital purposes:

• It would reassure Malaysians that their concerns are not dismissed but addressed transparently.

• It would allow the government to justify its invitation and articulate its reasoning before the people.

• It would empower the opposition to highlight weaknesses, ensuring a balance of views.

• Above all, it would affirm that Malaysia does not fear discussion but thrives on it, proving that “sunlight is the best disinfectant” in a democracy.

“Prime minister, you have often spoken of the need for madani values - justice, compassion, and accountability.

“By embracing an open debate, you will not only show confidence in your own decision but also uphold the rakyat’s right to see that no MP, whether from the government or the opposition, is silenced or hindered from speaking freely.

“Let this Parliament sitting on Oct 6 begin with a resounding message: that Malaysia remains unafraid of scrutiny, that we are stronger for our differences, and that free speech in Parliament is not an obstacle but the very essence and strength of democracy.

“It is the right of the rakyat to question, challenge, and ultimately strengthen the government through dialogue. I therefore respectfully call on you to prioritise this debate,” he added.

Anwar has so far stood firm on the decision to extend the invitation, while PAS is preparing to stage a mass protest against Trump over Washington’s backing of Israel. - Mkini