Do not use lawmaker funds to punish critical MPs, says assemblyperson

A Malaysian state assemblyperson has cautioned the government against using funding allocations as a tool to punish elected officials who voice criticism. Chan Chun Kuang, the assemblyperson for Semambu, argued that withholding funds based on a lawmaker's political stance demonstrates the government's failure to uphold the principle of fair and equitable allocation promised during the last general election.

Chan stated that such actions contradict the reform agenda championed by the ruling coalition since its inception. He emphasized that if allocations can be blocked or revoked due to a parliamentarian's political position, it not only breaks reform promises but also perpetuates an outdated political culture.

"It must be stressed that government parliamentarians also have a responsibility and trust from the people to provide checks and balances on executive power," Chan said. He added that constituency allocations should not be used to penalize critical voices. He warned that allowing political discretion to dictate fund allocation is dangerous.

Differences in opinion or criticism of the government are part of a healthy democracy, serving as a mechanism for checks and balances to ensure executive accountability. The assemblyperson also raised concerns about individuals without a public mandate being appointed to manage development funds, which he believes creates governance confusion and undermines democratic principles.

Chan proposed reforming the current Constituency Development Fund system, which he described as overly reliant on political discretion. He suggested replacing it with a transparent, needs-based mechanism with clear guidelines and audit trails. Applications should be evaluated based on public needs and established criteria, disbursed through relevant government agencies without political interference, a practice he noted is common in mature democracies.