I am happy to report we now have open racism AND sexism in Parliament.

Today, while in Parliament, Baling MP, Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim was heard saying “Gelap sangat tak nampak”(very dark cannot see) and “pakai bedak je lah”(just wear powder lah) in response to Batu Kawan MP, Kasthuriraani Patto asking about women’s representation.  

For a parliament that represents the voters, regardless of race, creed or background, it is incredibly distressing to see this behaviour done with impunity. I mean, the Speaker of the House dismissed it, as opposed to holding the MP accountable for his disgraceful remarks. 

Just imagine the kind of precedent this sets for the rest of the country through its implicit emboldening of racism. 

As we speak, Malaysian Indians are a minority who face injustice in this country so for the privileged Malay MP to say such offensive off-handed remarks just adds insult to injury. For one, despite ethnic Indians comprising less than seven percent of Malaysia’s population, we account for almost a quarter or 23 percent of officially reported deaths in police custody. Some organisations including Suara Rakyat Malaysia put that figure higher, at 55 percent. 

Instead of using his position to uplift those put at a disadvantage, the Baling MP runs his mouth and even justifies the unjustifiable behaviour. We exalt Sugu Pavithra  and demean others of the same background in the same breath. Shame. 

It is pathetic that the first day back in Parliament and this is what our elected officials are getting up to. Malaysians are losing their jobs left and right and nothing is being done. 

We should all be embarrassed if this is what we have to show for political representation in this country. Do better Malaysia.