KUCHING, Feb 27: Persatuan Pemangkin Daya Masyarakat (otherwise known as the Rise of Social Effort or Rose) urges Sarawakians not to “abandon ship as the rats will inherit the vessel”.
“Let us thus assert our democratic rights daily to demand higher standards in politics and governance.
“If you believe your children and Malaysia deserves better, please come register as a voter at our voter registration booth this weekend at Matang Mall. Our volunteers will be there on Feb 29 and Mar 1, 2020 from 11 am-7 pm (Saturday and Sunday),” said Rose in a statement today.
The NGO said in the midst of the collapse of the Pakatan Harapan government and the bewildering efforts to form a new government last weekend along with the resignation of a sitting prime minister, the people and voters may be feeling that elections and the choices made, especially in the last elections were “inconsequential”.
“However, we would like you to consider a few truths. Despite what is happening, Rose would like to remind people about the principle that politicians only make policies while people make choices about who we want to represent us.
“It is we the people and the voters who choose politicians to make policies that we feel will best meet our needs and those of our country.
“Yes, we the rakyat, hold the right to choose a government in a parliamentary democracy. And that is a right that we must not give up no matter what – even if we are represented by below standard politicians.
“Therefore, if we want to ensure that our democracy functions well, all of us need to continue to make our voices heard. We need to speak up, write and participate in peaceful activities to make our views known especially by our elected representatives, irrespective of whether they are in government or otherwise.
“We want a world class government operating in an environment of internationally-recognised standards,” said Rose. —DayakDaily
