KUALA LUMPUR: Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stands by his statement that the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC) is the best avenue for check and balance instead of the shadow cabinet.
This is despite comments from watchdogs who said dismissing the value of the opposition's shadow cabinet is a step backwards in democracy.
Fahmi said there is great value and constructive engagement in PSSC.
"These platforms (PSSC) already exist and should be made full use of by both the opposition as well as the backbenchers.
"A fully functioning PSSC will be able to put checks and balances on the executive. In other countries, we see that these committees play a vital role in not only making sure that democracy is alive and well, but particularly stakeholders are taken to account.
"So, for example, a minister can appear before the PSSC and be grilled and questioned. Industry players can also be asked to attend and explain themselves. This is one of the importance of the PSSC," he told reporters after launching the Maxis 5G-Advances Trial Showcase, here, today.
Fahmi said having been part of two PSSCs, the opposition should make full use of the committee which provides a check and balance role.
Yesterday, Fahmi said the PSSC is the best forum to monitor the progress of each ministry, compared to the shadow cabinet formed by Perikatan Nasional.
Fahmi said matters in relation to the opposition's shadow cabinet were not discussed in the cabinet meeting.
Following that, Engage chairman and former Bersih chairperson Thomas Fann said if the opposition is deprived of recognition and resources to function as a loyal opposition, they would constantly seek opportunities to overthrow the government.
He said for the PSSC to play an effective role in the check and balance practices, it must be adequately resourced.