AS reported by the media, Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein spoke about the Senate’s motion on forming a royal commission of inquiry (RCI) to probe the littoral combat ship (LCS) scandal surrounding Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS).

This scandal came to light after a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report summarised the failure of BNS in delivering a single ship, despite the fact that the government has paid more than RM6 billion, which has since ballooned to RM 9.13 billion.

As I have mentioned previously, the LCS can be categorised as a failure in corporate governance.

However, is an RCI necessary when this matter can be addressed in the Dewan Rakyat?

Regarding this matter, we have the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), which is currently working on prosecuting alleged wrongdoers in this scandal.

Thus, what we need is to bring back the parliamentary select committee that will handle this issue. Perhaps the special select committee on security could be the way forward.

It would have the power to conduct an investigation, compel BNS and ministries to produce documents, by virtue of SO83. It is practical, because the committee reflects the balance within the House.

This is also important because it helps to monitor the checks and balances between the government and the committee in charge.

This is a public interest issue. Therefore, it is the public’s right to gain insights into the findings of the investigation.

At the end of the day, the designated report on this issue should follow up with transparency, accountability, and public engagement. – August 18, 2022.

* Matilda George 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.