KUCHING: A proposed amendment to the Standing Orders of Sarawak Legislative Assembly is aimed at enhancing the accountability of assembly proceedings.
Meradong Assemblyman, Dato Ding Kuong Hiing emphasised the need for individuals to be accountable for their words.
“Being responsible for what we say is crucial because our words have the power to influence, hurt or heal others.
“To be mindful of what we say ultimately reflects our integrity and maturity,” he said.
He said this during the debate on the amendment of the Standing Orders of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on the second day of the Sitting on Tuesday.
Although he acknowledged social media’s benefits, like connectivity and access to information, but warned of its negative effects, including addiction, cyberbullying, and the spread of unverified fake news that causes significant damage.
“It is important that one must ensure what one says is true and ready to substantiate it,” he added.
The proposed amendment aims to enhance the governance of assembly proceedings by ensuring that allegations made within the Legislative Assembly are substantiated and verified.
Dato Ding lamented that some members have been known to make unsubstantiated claims both in the house and in the media, often saying one thing in the August House and something else outside to other media. -UKASnews
