Jangan mansuh tapi had 3 Adun lantikan, PH Melaka diberitahu

Analysts are urging Pakatan Harapan (PH) to soften the number of replacement MPs in Melaka from three instead of completely abolishing the practice to provide space for professionals, women, and minority groups who are underrepresented in the Dewan Undang-Undang Melaka (DUN). Tawfik Yaakub, from Universiti Malaya, stated that PH should not necessarily reject the benefits of this position as it allows for technocrats, women, and minority groups to have a voice in DUN.

This move would demonstrate a legal statute easily amendable when the government changes. It is essential to study and improve the system rather than jumping to conclusions, Yaakub told FMT. He added that the additional seven MPs' salary and expenditure are not significant compared to Melaka's overall budget, and seven is the maximum limit that does not have to be filled completely.

Yaakub also suggested that the Senate can also elect senators, and if the placement of replacements is indeed wasteful, PH should halt the senator appointment first before showing commitment to fiscal discipline. Instead, he proposed tightening the criteria for appointments through a clear bipartisan selection committee, in addition to resolving constitutional integrity issues that are challenged in court first.

PH's Melaka leader Adly Zahari had promised to revoke the replacement of seven MPs if the PRN coalition wins tomorrow to save state expenditure and redirect it to housing for the poor. Meanwhile, constitutional expert Nik Ahmad Kamal Nik Mahmod said the issue can be evaluated from two perspectives, namely political polarization and reducing the cost to the people.

From a political perspective, adding replacement seats can strengthen the state government's majority if they are given the power to vote like elected representatives. However, he acknowledged that appointing technocrats, NGOs, and minority groups like Orang Asli is a good practice that can balance the concept of DUN and strengthen its structure.

The question is whether the existing MPs can effectively represent these minorities and professionals, and if not, new appointments are necessary. However, if they can represent them effectively, there is no need for additional appointments as it would waste taxpayers' money. Ultimately, it is up to the voters in Melaka to interpret and decide during the next PRN.