Rowdy opposition embarrassed themselves, says PM

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said that the opposition had embarassed themselves by creating a ruckus during his Budget 2017 speech.

"They have embarrassed themselves in the eyes of the public. I think the rakyat can evaluate their character.

"If they want to practise democracy, they should respect the democratic process," he told reporters who met with him in the Parliament lobby after he finished tabling Budget 2017.

Earlier, the opposition MPs from PKR, DAP, Parti Amanah Negara and newly formed Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia held up placards with the words "Who is MO1?" when Najib mocked the opposition for claiming that the country was cash-strapped.

After a brief commotion, most of the opposition MPs staged a walkout.

Najib criticised the opposition for the walkout, adding that such behaviour does not happen in developed countries even then there are differences of opinion. 

"This also tarnished Parliament's image. I think what is important is for the people to evaluate their (the opposition’s) character and make the decision when it (the election) comes," he said.

As elected representatives, Najib added, they should show good character.

"We must respect others, although we have differences in opinion or ideology. We should be courteous and show good character as we are leaders, regardless if we are the opposition or with the government.

"We are leaders and as leaders, we must show good character so that we are respected by the people and bring dignity to the Parliament and to democracy," he said. -Mkini