By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, May 15: Bawang Assan assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh has called for Question Time in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) to be made more efficient, urging ministers and deputy ministers to give concise replies and avoid lengthy policy explanations.
The veteran lawmaker said the current approach is slowing proceedings and limiting the number of questions that can be addressed during each sitting.
He noted that out of about 254 oral questions tabled for the current sitting, fewer than 50 were answered.
“That means only about one-fifth are answered. The rest are left unanswered,” he said during a press conference at the Media Room of the DUS Complex here today.
Wong, who served as DUS Speaker from 1994 to 1996, said Question Time should be strictly for direct answers from the Executive, rather than extended policy discussions.
“Be concise and direct. Answer exactly what is asked — no more and no less. A minister should go straight to the point to avoid long introductions or unnecessary explanations,” he pointed out.
He added that when detailed data or statistics are required, ministers should opt to provide written replies instead of reading lengthy information in the House.
“If an Honourable Member asks for statistics, data or updates, ministers can provide them directly. Otherwise, they can simply tell the Honourable Member that the information is too detailed and will be provided in a written reply later.
“There is no need to read out all the statistics in the House as it will take up a lot of time. Worse, Question Time should not be turned into policy explanations. That should be avoided,” he added.
Wong also said the issue is not theoretical, noting that he had submitted 10 oral questions during the sitting but only one was answered, reflecting a wider challenge faced by elected representatives.
He said a more disciplined approach by ministers and deputy ministers would allow more questions to be addressed within limited time.
On constituency matters and debate discipline, Wong also noted that some assemblymen were allegedly speaking off-topic during debates, saying discussions should remain focused on the Governor’s address and relevant constituency issues.
He suggested that backbenchers’ groups play a stronger role in guiding members on proper debate conduct.
“The backbenchers’ club should serve as a platform to guide members on what to do and what not to do during debates,” he said.
Wong said he raised the matter publicly through the media to draw attention to the need for improved efficiency in Question Time proceedings. — DayakDaily
