The third force – K. Haridas

The “third force” should initiate this as they will bring into the picture a new level of credibility and assurance that is needed.

K. Haridas, The Malaysian Insider

There is an increasing disconnect between the citizen and the politicians in power. Their lack in terms of the popular vote at the last eeneral election  underlines this reality.

Despite their poor performance, there has been no soul searching nor any attempts to make a difference. On the other hand there is perhaps a glee and confidence that with continued gerrymandering they would be able to hang on to power.

To expect a change through the electoral process when all things are stacked against the voter shows how skewed the present system is. Our only hope remains in the possibility of a "third force", a group of people who will give leadership to a new and inclusive future.

As we view events in our sitting rooms covering happenings in Iraq, Syria, South Sudan, Egypt and Yemen we should recognise that dialogue, consensus-building and seeking agreement are significant options when compared to violence, arms, deaths, explosions and the involvement of third parties.

Everyone is a loser and all will have to begin again at ground zero. The costs are heavy and history teaches us nothing.

We know what is wrong and what causes us concern in Malaysia. This is important but more critical than this is to articulate what we need if our democracy is to move to the next level of involvement in today's fast and changing environment.

This calls for new approaches, an open mind and an inclusive partnership where we work together for the common good of all. We have to move from a mindset of fear and lack to one of embracing abundance and responding with care and compassion knowing that together we can provide for more than the needs in our society.

Some of the areas of concern that needs to be addressed include the following:

A fundamental belief and commitment to dialogue, consultations and respect for one another.

The need for patient consensus building.

A singular commitment to Malaysia beyond ethnic priorities and concerns. The belief that what is good for Malaysians as a whole would be good for all ethnic groups. To move away from a race based mind set.

A re-emphasis on the doctrine of separation of powers between the executive, the legislature and the judiciary. This had to be clearly defined and put in place.

Powers be given to independent commissions namely, the Election Commission, Suhakam, MACC and such other bodies so that they can effectively play the check and balance role in governance.

Ensure fair delineation of constituencies and to correct glaring imbalance between constituencies - urban vs urban and urban vs rural.  Our electoral system must be fair and just and this calls for an honest conversation so that power evolves from fairness.

Implementation of the findings of the police Commission - a response to security needs

Independent Judicial Commission for the appointment of Judges; integrity of the judiciary.

Review of Pota and the Sedition Act. Bills drafted by the A-G's chambers to be sent to other key stakeholders like civil society groups, relevant NGOs, the Bar Council etc, before being submitted to Parliament.

Consider the setting up of an interfaith body and a race relations body, all of which will help with the ongoing dialogue. We need not fear these bodies and their consultative status.

Independence of the Attorney-General and Auditor-General so that they become watchdogs with teeth.

A review of the present Education Policy. To provide choice in the use of language for the study of Maths and Science at the secondary school level.

Doing away with archaic laws like the Printing and Publications Act, the Official Secrets Act and others. That all antiquated acts be reviewed. New laws covering the Freedom of Information Act and the Right to Information be tabled.

To open the dialogue with East Malaysia with regards agreement and seek feedback and consensus on the Malaysia Agreement.

Review the Civil Service Commission so that a more equitable representation of Malaysian's in the service is identified.

Just as we have qualified lawyers, doctors, pilots to ensure that politician with knowledge,  qualifications and expertise helm and provide leadership.

Parliament and the way bills are pushed through in record time and the lack of committee inspection has to be reviewed. This is an insult to our Democratic Institutions.

To balance the relationship between the Shariah and civil jurisdiction and consider ways in which this does not espouse ethnic and religious conflicts and misunderstanding.

The above represent issues that will be perceived as challenging to some groups. The need is to be open and to listen to the other side and never to fear dialogue.

All issues on the table must elicit responses and be inclusive in nature and approach.

We have had over three decades under Barisan Nasional and what has worked in the past is no more working or evoking the sense of response that is needed from citizens.

This is part of a movement forward to a new place. This requires consultations, discussions and meetings resulting in new formulations.

The "third force" should initiate this as they will bring into the picture a new level of credibility and assurance that is needed.

Moderation is not about balancing an agenda set by the extremists. It is about clearly defining what we need, want and action these forward.

We all know what moderation is not about and clearly it should not be a response to extremism, violence, greed, hate and expressions of  bitterness.

Moderation is not about exclusive approaches nor is it an agenda governed by what is set out by extremists. It is about inclusiveness and justice for all Malaysians.

Moderation is about balance and unlike "stability" should not be governed by fear. In the name of stability so much was compromised that has led us to where we are presently.

For us in Malaysia it is about the Rukunegara and moving beyond a mere belief in God to one of practising one's beliefs in terms of conduct, behaviour and exhibiting compassion and justice for all Malaysians.

It is about respect for king and country and upholding values enshrined in the Constitution. It is about the rule of law and rising above narrow divisive interests, upholding what is right in the context of Malaysia.

It is about morality above rules and requirements and living, sharing and working for the whole and not the part. Walking the talk and being held accountable.

This requires a bi-partisan approach, one where the focus is on a commitment to the nation and its future based on shared values and goals.

Those who share this must move beyond ego and party politics. Such are the challenges on the way if we want to make a difference. It is also not merely a matter of success or failure.

It is better to have tried and failed than to have not tried at all. We are at that turning point and we need leaders who are ready to discuss difficult and sensitive issues and come to an understanding.

This is not about perfection but about meeting today's needs and tomorrow's possibilities. Are we mature enough after 57 years of Independence or do we need a crisis of serious proportions to initiative such a dialogue?