However, citizens cannot be complacent that the mere provision of these rights will guarantee our enjoyment of them. We have to be consistently vigilant that our inherent freedom to live is not oppressed by politicians. This is supposedly our system of checks and balances so that citizens are not oppressed by the powerful government. The repealed Internal Security Act (ISA), for example, had quelled citizens’ thoughts, discussions and deliberations on many matters of national interest for decades. Fourthly, I believe many citizens are still not aware of the lawmaking role of members of Parliament and state assemblies.

Source: The Star July 24, 2021 21:22 UTC