Deliberative democracy: A potential remedy for Malaysia’s political unrest

In a polarizing climate ahead of key state-level elections in Malaysia, simmering tensions surrounding race, religion, and royalty are reignited. The nation is caught between self-serving political factions and a growing populist trend. However, as Simone Galimberti’s interview with Dr. Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani reveals, the solution may lie in fostering deliberative democracy, a system promoting public discussion on contentious issues and reform.

APHR calls on Indonesia to champion human rights, democracy, and climate action in ASEAN

The ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) urge Indonesia, as ASEAN Chair, to take a decisive lead in addressing regional human rights issues, bolstering democracy, and advancing climate protection initiatives.

Kenneth Jeyaretnam: Singaporeans Need to Take a Long Hard Look Under That Carpet

In a compelling opinion piece, Kenneth Jeyaretnam, Secretary General of the Reform Party, delves into the pressing questions surrounding the resignations of Tan Chuan-Jin, the former Speaker of Parliament, and PAP MP Cheng Li Hui. He probes into the timing and implications of their affairs and calls for an immediate GE and reforms to address the flaws in the current political system.

Workers’ Party to hold press conference on Wednesday to address allegations involving Leon Perera and Nicole Seah

The Workers’ Party is scheduled to hold a press conference tomorrow (19 Jul) to address allegations of improper relations between MP Leon Perera and party member Nicole Seah. A video circulated on social media on the same day (17 Jul) as the announcement of Tan Chuan Jin and Cheng Li Hui’s affair by PM Lee Hsien Loong, shows both individuals holding hands in what seems to be a restaurant. Some have suggested that the video was taken two years ago.

Workers’ Party conducted emergency meeting on Monday night over controversial video

The Workers’ Party (WP) is currently conducting an investigation into a 15-second video featuring two senior party members. As reported by Lianhe Zaobao, an emergency meeting of the WP was convened on Monday (17 Jul) night, lasting two hours. Workers’ Party Secretary-General Pritam Singh mentioned in an interview that the CEC deliberations are still ongoing, and they will announce the results when the time is right.

Succession plan: Cambodia PM’s favoured son on path to power

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen’s dynastic succession plans raise concerns about democracy, resembling North Korea, and stifling reform.

Red Dot United calls for probe into PM Lee’s decision leaving voters in equivalent one GRC without representation

Ravi Philemon, Secretary-General of Red Dot United, urges Parliament to investigate the Prime Minister’s decisions impacting representation and governance. He emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability, stating that delayed clarifications undermine trust. RDU calls for immediate action to restore public trust.

Lim Tean urges PM Lee to call for election as more PAP scandals unfold

Amid a series of scandals engulfing the ruling party, Lim Tean, leader of the People’s Voice party, urges PM Lee to dissolve parliament and call for an election, emphasizing that a party in such a state is unfit to govern. He sees these developments as a significant lapse in PM Lee’s judgment.

Philippines’ Marcos signs US$9 bn wealth fund into law

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos signs a law creating a US$9 billion sovereign wealth fund to stimulate economic growth and infrastructure spending, despite critics warning of potential misuse and public opposition. The fund, named the “Maharlika Investment Fund,” will draw funds from various sources, including the national government, gaming revenue, and private investments. Marcos assures transparency and prudent management of the fund.

Kedah Chief Minister Sanusi arrested and charged for seditious remarks against Selangor King

Muhammad Sanusi Md Noor, the caretaker Chief Minister of Kedah, was arrested at 3 am on Tuesday (18 Jul). He faced charges of making seditious remarks against the Sultan of Selangor in court that morning. The Selangor Royal Office considered his speech an insult to the Selangor Royal Institution.