Dato Idris Buang
KUCHING: The rule of law and process of natural justice must be upheld and applied unequivocally to all citizens at all times, said Muara Tuang assemblyman and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) publicity chief Dato Idris Buang.
He said this in reference to the recent slew of adverse comments and criticism levelled at Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on social media over the past couple of days.
“Najib is a gentleman even in defeat. It is only proper that he and his family be given some space and privacy in the wake of the Barisan Nasional (BN) defeat in the 14th general election (GE14),” he said, adding that defamatory remarks and condemnation were unnecessary.
He said Najib would be remembered by Sarawakians for his contribution to the socio-economic development of the state, especially in hastening the construction and completion of the Pan Borneo Highway and for initiating 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M).
“The fundamental principle of fairness is embedded in the letter and spirit of the rule of law and which must be upheld by law-abiding citizens,” said Idris, who made specific reference to the principle: ‘Do not condemn a man unless and until he is proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt’.
According to him, Islam requires its followers to act judiciously and responsibly and to refrain from making defamatory or malicious remarks against another fellow human being.
“This is the basis of natural justice and the rule of law, which are universal principles in all civilised democratic nations the world over.”
Idris called upon the people to stay calm and be patient during the transition period when the new government under Pakatan Harapan (PH) is being formed.
“I am confident that under Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the PH government would act responsibly to adhere and abide by the tenets of natural justice and the rule of law, which (Dr Mahathir) reiterated as the basis of the new administration since he took over as the seventh prime minister three days ago.”
The prime minister had stressed that the rule of law would be the defining factor in all aspects of the government administration and processes, and that civil liberty and good governance would be among the hallmarks that would take centre-stage.
“As for us in PBB and state BN, we are strongly loyal as ever to the leadership under (Chief Minister) Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, and we will go on to fulfil our promises contained in our State Manifesto, in particular our struggle to get back all our infringed rights under Malaysia Agreement 1963, the Federal Constitution and all relevant laws. We will do our utmost best to serve the people of Sarawak with sincerity and dedication,” said Idris.