AS MALAYSIA approaches its 70th year of independence in 2027, an important question deserves national reflection: Have our political practices matured alongside our democratic institutions?
The recent state elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, followed by the ongoing Melaka State Election, have renewed concerns about political hostility, personal attacks, offensive rhetoric and the circulation of unverified allegations during electoral campaigns.
While political competition remains fundamental to democracy, the methods employed to secure electoral support deserve closer scrutiny. Elections should represent a contest of ideas, leadership capabilities and policy alternatives rather than a competition in humiliation, character assassination and political provocation.
