MPs should learn how to champion issues from student debaters who speak with intelligence, confidence and respect, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar said many of these students, particularly those in Form 3 and Form 4, have displayed strong critical thinking and impressive command of language, while remaining polite and composed at all times.
“I joked earlier that MPs should watch how these students debate. They’re firm, informed, strong in their arguments, but still respectful,” he said after the 50th edition of the Prime Minister’s Cup Debate Competition here today.
He criticised the current state of parliamentary debates, saying they were often filled with personal attacks disguised as arguments.
Anwar said debates in the Dewan Rakyat should never be reduced to slander or insults, particularly when religion is used to justify such behaviour.
He said having differing views was healthy, but it must be done with decorum, and warned against misusing religion to justify unethical behaviour or score political points.
Anwar said the performance of students who took part in the competition today reflected not only their mastery of knowledge but also their discipline and character.
“This is the kind of leadership we hope to nurture, one that reaches for the sky, but stays rooted in our values,” he said.
