Datukship not for everybody

Updated 7 years ago · Published on 15 Oct 2018 12:10PM · 4 Comments

LAST Friday, in conjunction with the Governor of Malacca’s birthday, five cabinet ministers were among those awarded the Darjah Gemilang Seri Melaka, which carries the title of “Datuk Seri”.

Honorary titles are something that should not simply be given to any politician, but must only be awarded after a strenuous vetting process and only to those who have unquestionably contributed to society through exceptional service beyond their ordinary call of duty.

Ministers who are currently still in office as well as other elected representatives generally should not receive such awards, especially solely by virtue of their office.

They have been given the mandate by the people to administer and execute their duties for the betterment of society.

Simply put, it is their job to contribute to society by virtue of their office, and that cannot be construed in any stretch as something that goes beyond their call of duty.

The titles awarded to these ministers are even more questionable when we take into account that they have only been in office for roughly five months, too brief a period for anyone to say that any policy or action taken has brought significant improvement or contribution to society. In fact, nothing so far can be noted as something that exceeds what is required of them.

These ministers should have done the right thing and courteously declined to accept the titles.

If politicians or ministers are continuously awarded with titles by virtue of their position, this would demean the significance of the honorary title, rendering it meaningless.

The dated practice of awarding politicians or ministers honorary titles, long practised under Barisan Nasional rule, should be done away with. If they desire to have one, they must prove their worth, just like everyone else. – October 15, 2018.

* Zaid Malek is the coordinator for Lawyers for Liberty.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.

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Comments

  • Can we do away with all the insignificant honorific and get the Government servant to really work.

    Posted 7 years ago by Lee Lee · Reply

  • The ministers who received the Datukship should asked to be addressed as YB only..just like their fellow peers who were not given any Datukships.. This is to show comradeship, respect and humility to their peers.

    Posted 7 years ago by Lily Cheong · Reply

    • What humility? The lady's one is totally undeserving. Doesn't even deserve to be a minister!

      Posted 7 years ago by Watchdog Watchdog · Reply

  • I agree. Awards should be only given to those who serve the nation selflessly.

    Posted 7 years ago by Malaysia New hope · Reply