If you fear politics, at least let the PSC work - Kelvin Yii

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuching City MP Kelvin Yii has suggested that the government allow the Parliamentary Special Committee (PSC) to continue to function as an alternative to the postponement of the parliamentary session.

He explained that the PSC allows elected representatives to be involved in discussing various issues of the people in addition to obtaining the latest data needed.

“I was very disappointed when we were not allowed to function following the Emergency Ordinance.

“For me, if the government is confident in the management of COVID-19, then they need to release the data and face the questions of MPs or in the PSC.

“If they are afraid of even politics, at least allow the PSC to function because we also want to give our views.

"We want to know the data. The data released is too macro and general," he said while being a guest at the 'Right to Information (RTI) Legislation in Sarawak roadshow' via Zoom on Tuesday night.

According to Kelvin, he faced difficulties when the government was said to only provide macro or general data on issues including COVID-19 in Sarawak.

"For example, they (the government) do not provide in-depth information on COVID-19 data in Sarawak. We want to know detailed information as in the outbreak area, so we can make effective decisions.

“Again it needs data from the government, even on how they make decisions about reopening schools, businesses.

“All of this has to be done with scientific data and not with general statements alone,” he said.

He added that he understood that some of the data could not be shared due to national security factors.

However, he stressed, for sensitive issues or data, the government may be able to discuss with the PSC first.

“Perhaps for sensitive information, the government may be able to disclose it to the PSC first.

“We can create an agreement saying at least we can decide whether this information can be disclosed to the public or not,” he added.