Unequal constituency allocations and what it means for democracy

Malaysiakini

5 days ago

LETTER | The recent news about Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman receiving only RM200,000 for his constituency - and with stringent conditions limiting its use to office expenses - is more than just a budgetary issue.
It's a reflection of a political system still grappling with deep-seated practices of patronage and partisan control.
We must understand: this isn't simply about numbers. It's about the way resources are distributed - often not based on need or merit, but on political allegiance.
And that's a problem, because when fairness gives way to favouritism, when democracy is shadowed by partisanship, the people - the very heart of our nation - are the ones who lose.
When Pakatan Harapan, including DAP, was in government, there was a promise - a commitment - to break these old patterns.
They spoke of transparency, of equitable funding regardless of political stripes. Yet, as we see in Muar, these reforms are still works in progress.
Entrenched systems don't change overnight. They test our patience and challenge our resolve.
But make no mistake: when opposition MPs are restricted to spending their limited funds on office costs alone, unable to invest in public welfare or community development, the consequences are real and felt.
It hinders their ability to serve constituents effectively and weakens the bond between elected leaders and the people they represent.
This isn't just about politics. It's about community. About trust. About whether Malaysians feel their voices matter, regardless of the party they support.
When political funding becomes a tool for division rather than unity, cynicism grows, and engagement falters.
Syed Saddiq's creative efforts to raise funds outside of government channels show the spirit of resilience and dedication that inspires hope. But no one should have to carry that burden alone.
Our democracy calls on us to do better. To build systems that empower every representative to serve their people fully and fairly.
Only then can we build a Malaysia where fairness isn't an ideal, but a reality; where unity isn't just a slogan, but a shared experience.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.