PETALING JAYA: Malaysia should have more open debates between politicians so that the people are able to evaluate their stand, say civil society leaders.

       “Political parties can outline their policies for the people to have a better assessment of them before they cast their votes,” said social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

       He believes that controversial issues that do not touch on race and religion should be discussed on televised debates as it would help Malaysians understand the issues better.

       “It is important that more opportunities be made available so the leaders of these political parties can engage in debates.

       “If this can be worked out for GE15, I think it can provide opportunities for leaders of political parties. It will bring us to a new political landscape and shift our election campaigning to the next level,” he said.

       His comments were in reference to the public debate held on Tuesday between Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng on the National Cabotage Policy.

       It was broadcast live on TV and social media platforms.

       Lee said the debate between Dr Wee and Lim was a good start to enable Malaysians to have a better understanding of current issues.

       Televised debates, he said, are ever more important now that people have to live with Covid-19.

       Malaysian Youth Council president Jufitri Joha said civil debates should be based on facts, not emotions.

       “Leaders must be open and willing to agree to disagree.

       “Civil debate is not about determining a winner but to find the truth and correct mistakes for the benefit of the people,” he said, adding that he hopes to see more of this in the next general election so that the public could evaluate the best options for them.

       Centre for Research, Advisory and Technology founder and chief executive officer Ng Yeen Seen said a healthy democracy is predicated on the ability of citizens to deliberate and espouse their opinions and grievances.

       “Soon, we will see a more informed electorate who would expect their leaders to make their stance on policies clearly, and be accountable to what they pledged during the election campaign.

       “For candidates and political leaders to argue and debate either online or offline is better than no debate at all.

       “Easy access to information through debates between rival candidates will not only force politicians to be accountable for what they say, but this can also significantly improve the electorate’s knowledge and increase democratic participation in the long run,” she said.