GOPENG Member of Parliament Dr Lee Boon Chye responds to the MP Watch: Eye on Parliament project, which asks all 222 MPs six questions.
(source: parlimen.gov.my)Name: Lee Boon Chye
Constituency: Gopeng
Party: PKR (Opposition)
Years as MP: Since 2008
Government post: None
Party position:
Vice-president
Membership in parliamentary committee or caucus: None
Blog/website: http://gopeng.wordpress.com/
Would you support the abolition/review of the Internal Security Act (ISA), in particular the provision that allows for detention without trial? Why or why not?
The ISA should be abolished. There is no role for detention without trial. It is easily subjected, and invariably so, to abuse by the authorities.
Do you think Malaysia should be a secular or an Islamic state? Why?
According to Malaysia’s constitution, it is a secular state and it should remain so. Islam is the official religion of the state.
How do you define your role as an elected MP? Does Parliament provide you with the necessary infrastructure and support to fulfil your role?
My main roles involve serving my constituency and participating in the formulation of national policies. However, the support from Parliament is limited in terms of good research and personal assistants as well as financial assistance.
Would you support a Freedom of Information Act? Why or why not?
Yes, this would improve efficiency in government administration. It would also help reduce corruption, and reduce the cost of running businesses for investors.
If there was one thing you could do to strengthen parliamentary democracy in Malaysia, what would it be?
Better and equal treatment given to both backbenchers and opposition MPs with regards to constituency allocation and support for parliamentary assistants.
Do you believe in separation of powers between the government, Parliament and judiciary? Why or why not?
Yes. Separation of powers to provide a check and balance is fundamental to maintaining a healthy democracy.
For other MP responses, see Full MP list
The Nut Graph needs your support
Please take our five-minute reader survey