ABOLISHING draconian laws, which allow for detention without trial, and strengthening existing laws to maintain security, peace and justice are on Petaling Jaya MP Maria Chin Abdullah’s Christmas wishlist.

This includes laws such as the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma), the Prevention of Crime Act (Poca) and the Prevention of Terrorism Act(Pota).

“There must be greater push for integrity within law enforcement in order to uphold the rule of law.

“We must also strengthen existing laws to maintain security, and bring peace and justice,” Maria told The Malaysian Insight.

She also hoped that during the holiday season and new year, all Malaysians can put aside their differences and be united to strengthen the nation.

“Whether it is economic dissatisfaction, social inequality, gender imbalance or institutional reforms, I believe that if we all come together in an inclusive and honest way, we can find solutions and new approaches to some of our most pressing issues,” the first-term lawmaker said.

She also called for inclusivity and better social integration in order to rise above divisive “racial and religious extremist politics”.

Adding that it is about time there is a change in perception and bias against gender-based violence and discrimination, Maria also hopes that there will be greater awareness among policymakers on gender equality and making the country free from discrimination.

On that note, she urged for the tabling of a comprehensive gender equality bill in Parliament.

Wishing Malaysians a “Merry Christmas” and a “Happy New Year”, Maria said she also wants greater protection for the environment and an end to destructive practices such as deforestation, river pollution and illegal dumping.

Maria and Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran hosted a Christmas Open House for residents of Petaling Jaya in Taman Jaya today. – December 14, 2019.