SHAH ALAM: The country's stability can only be achieved if the Opposition practices principles of transparency and accountability to the country, by providing a check and balance on the ruling government.
Council of Former Elected Representatives (Mubarak) former president Tan Sri Abu Zahar Ujang said the situation in Malaysia is different from the countries he has visited where elected representatives placed loyalty to country above politics.
"This is what we want but the reality is, it is not. There are those who are too selfish, and there are those who are too obsessed with their group.
"In Australia, the sense of loyalty to the country is of most paramount importance. In Japan for example, when the country tables its Budget, everyone, including the Opposition debated respectfully and honourably.
"There were no rude, inflammatory remarks. This is what we want to portray to the people now," he said in a press conference after officiating Mubarak's meeting here today.
However, Abu Zahar stopped short of saying that the Opposition do not have loyalty to the country.
"I cannot say that. From what I can see in the senate, some are very good.
"Our loyalty to the country is paramount. When we go overseas, Malaysian representatives must speak for the good of the country. Don't back stab the country," he added.
Abu Zahar, who is also Dewan Negara president, said at the moment, the quality of the Opposition in the country has been found wanting when it came to respecting rules and laws, and this was clearly demonstrated during debates in Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara.