A striking pattern I have observed in Malaysians is that they react strongly to the mistreatment of cats or dogs, and protest loudly over even minor issues tied to religion or race, yet often overlook deeper structural issues that shape their future and that of their descendants.The latest such matter is the move by the governments of Melaka and Johor to change the state constitutions to allow nominated representatives to sit in the state legislative assembly.Most Malaysians would have been unaware of the changes to the Melaka constitution if not for DAP assemblymen resigning from the state executive council in protest.Their action also threw the spotlight on the earlier move by the Johor government to introduce nominated assemblymen.The moves elicited protest or caution statements from a few legal minds and rights groups but there was no public outcry.The larger public either does not understand the ramifications or is not bothered. I don’t know if this is a failure of voters or the success of a political strategy refined over decades.The politicians in Johor and Melaka tell us, with practiced earnestness, that amending state constitutions to allow handpicked representatives is all about bringing in "technocratic talent," giving a voice to underrepresented minorities, and raising the level of debate.It is a lovely narrative. But for anyone who has watched Malaysian politics long enough, the alarm bells should be ringing loud and clear.Before I delve into that, let’s be clear that Johor and Melaka have not set a precedent; they are merely following what several other states have already done.In 1963, when Sabah entered Malaysia, its own constitution already carried up to six nominated members appointed by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri.
In 2003, Terengganu allowed up to four persons to be nominated assemblymen but they must be non-Muslim or female members.In 2020, Pahang amended its constitution to add up to five nominated members. On May 7 this year, Johor added five more assembly seats to bring the total to 61. On July 14, Melaka added up to seven nominated members to its state assembly.
It currently has 28.Melaka Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh said the amendment allowed the appointment of individuals with expertise and experience in fields such as law, economics, education, and technology to contribute directly to policymaking and legislative debates.“The appoi…
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