KUALA LUMPUR: The 'Dubai Move' or any plans to engineer a change in government may be politically justifiable, but engaging in such manoeuvres will result in the wrath of voters.
Political analyst Professor Dr. Nik Ahmad Kamal Nik Mahmood said Malaysians were concerned about the stability of the government, "so they can live happily ever after, and not worry about MPs switching sides."
During an interview on NST's Beyond the Headlines, he proposed an introduction of recall elections fixed in Parliament, aimed at reducing instances of politicians switching parties or factions after being elected.
The idea, said the head of the National Professor's Council's Governance, Law and Management Cluster, is to create a deterrent effect, highlighting the potential consequences of such actions, such as losing their seats.
"Because in our case, without a recall election requirement, if you leave and then you lose your seat, you can run again."
Commenting on the nature of party or faction hopping within the country, Nik Ahmad said the complex issue of MPs voting against their party's policies comes if it benefits their constituents.
However, he advocated for patience to assess the effectiveness of Malaysia's Anti-Hopping Law, in light of the ongoing debate surrounding the Dubai Move, including the broader issue of political loyalty and flexibility.
"I believe that if the government is brave enough, then they should table the amendment to the law and strengthen it. Plug all the loopholes detected."
Follow the full discussion in the latest episode of Beyond the Headlines…