PAKATAN Harapan fully embraces the practices of an open and vibrant democracy, in which differences in political opinion are not only tolerated, but celebrated. As a coalition of opposition political parties in Malaysia, PH attempts to voice the concerns of Malaysians and air alternative views that are not given sufficient attention by the government. 

The statement issued by Anifah Aman, in which he censured PH for holding a dialogue with ambassadors of EU nations, is clearly misguided and, in making such spurious allegations, betrays the core values of an open and vibrant democracy that the government claims to embrace. 

It has been a diplomatic norm for ambassadors of all countries to hold dialogues with representatives of opposition political parties. This is done so that each nation has multiple channels of dialogue in order to fully understand the country’s domestic affairs. Even our own ambassadors speak to opposition political parties in the countries they serve. It is widely recognised that if our ambassadors do not do so, it would not be in the best interest of the Malaysian people.

Indeed, this practice of open communication between ambassadors and various political components within a  country is especially established within the EU. This is a sign of healthy and mature democracy in which differences in opinion help each nation make an informed decision. A mature democracy would not treat such communication as a threat. Perhaps, if the government aspires to be a first-world democracy, it should start by behaving like one and refrain from political intimidation.

Dr Mahathir Mohamad is widely recognised as a prominent figure who has contributed immensely to Malaysia, and this is a country that is dear to him. Rather than harassing his family, the government should focus on convincingly respond to the issues he has raised. Political intimidation, including action by government agencies have enhanced support for him and raised more questions about the real intentions of the government.

Perhaps, rather than occupying himself with this issue, Anifah, as foreign minister, should pay more attention to the mounting concerns of our diplomatic staff. Lack of funds have severely affected our diplomatic missions. Ambassadors are finding it difficult to repair government vehicles. Local staff are not paid their overtime dues. Diplomats are asked to move but the funds are not properly allocated. Embassies abroad are unable to carry out their diplomatic missions to enhance our interests as no funds have been allocated for the past two years. It is a shame that the Islamic Development Department, a unit under the Prime Minister’s Department, and Permata are given more funds than Wisma Putra, which is a ministry.

The Foreign Ministry should strive harder to give dignity to our diplomats abroad, and to allow our ambassadors abroad and at home to continue furthering the nation’s interest. If the government isn’t willing, then PH will take up the mantle of ensuring that the nation’s dignity is restored and make Malaysia great in the international arena. – January 29, 2018.

* Yusmadi Yusoff is a former Balik Pulau MP from PKR and is a Drapper Hills fellow on democracy, Development and rule of law at Stanford University. He reads The Malaysian Insight.

* 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.