By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Nov 12: The freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences, says Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.
He said that while everyone is entitled to their opinion and the right to share their thoughts and feelings, the way we do so requires care and accountability.
“However, the right to the freedom of speech and expression is taking an increasingly dark and deeply malicious tone.
“While members of this august House enjoy freedom of speech and freedom of expression, it doesn’t come without responsibility because the freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom of consequences.
“This is something that many likely don’t realise when speaking in this august House, especially when feeling they are hidden behind the perceived safety of legislative immunity for accountability for their actions,” he said when debating in support of a motion to amend Standing Orders of Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) in the DUS sitting today.
He explained that while members have the right to share opinions, especially those that challenge the status quo, the abuse of free speech occurs when opinions are used as a cover to harm, ridicule or damage others.
In addition, he stressed that members should base their questions and debates on accurate, reliable facts, not “half-cooked” information.
Any allegations made against another member must be supported by credible sources to allow the public to form informed opinions, he added.
“The amendment will prevent any member from playing to the public gallery to create a negative allegation or negative insinuation or negative opinion without first verifying the facts against another member to create a negative perception against another member.
“The proposed amendment to the standing orders are therefore timely and on that note, I fully support this Motion,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily
