BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Speaker of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Datuk Seri Setia Abdul Rahman Datuk Setia Mohamed Taib, in his closing remarks at the conclusion of the Second Meeting of the 22nd LegCo Session Tuesday (Aug 11), emphasised that consultation, or musyawarah, is more than simply a process of discussion.
Rather, it is a noble value and a cornerstone of the culture of the LegCo, encouraging members of the council to listen to one another with open minds, consider differing perspectives with wisdom and respect, and seek common ground in the best interests of the people.
The Speaker also noted that it is a cultural heritage and Islamic value that has long formed the foundation of the approach to governance and decision-making in the country, as reflected in the principle of syura – decisions reached through mutual consultation and consensus, making them more blessed and more firmly embraced by all parties.
He stressed that, in the face of increasingly complex challenges and rapid changes, the spirit of musyawarah must continue to serve as a catalyst for reaching decisions that are fair, considered, and beneficial to the people.
He urged all LegCo members to continue upholding this spirit in every discussion, so that the LegCo will continue to be recognised as an institution distinguished by wisdom and consensus.
This is because the maturity of LegCo is not measured by the uniformity of its views, but by its willingness to listen, consider arguments, and, where necessary, refine proposals in pursuit of better outcomes.
Differences of opinion among members, he noted, are natural and healthy for any properly functioning legislative institution. What matters is how such differences are received and discussed – with an open mind, arguments grounded in facts, and a tone of mutual respect, rather than an emotional approach.
This will demonstrate the ability of the council to manage differences constructively in pursuit of the best possible outcomes for the people. He also expressed hope that LegCo members will continue to foster a culture of open, constructive, and respectful debate in the Chamber.
This, he noted, is one of the hallmarks of a mature institution – the ability to hold differing views while remaining willing to seek common ground in the interests of all. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
