Saifuddin Abdullah called for more state assemblies to create opposition leader positions and select committees, and increase the number of sittings per session.

PETALING JAYA: The opposition leader should have a role in determining the Dewan Rakyat’s order of business to deepen political consultation and strengthen democratic governance, says Wawasan secretary-general Saifuddin Abdullah.

Writing in his Merentas Ruang column in Sinar Harian, the Indera Mahkota MP and former foreign minister said the time was right to develop the concept of syura, or consultation, in various democratic processes.

"This should include greater consultation with parliamentary select committees in the legislative process, and give the opposition leader a role in determining the Dewan Rakyat’s agenda," he said.