Abstract
In a constitutional democracy like Malaysia, there is a system of checks and balance, with parliament playing its role as a legislative body and as an institution which oversees proper implementation of policies by the Executive. This oversight function of parliament is very critical to protect the interests of the people against abuses of power and deviations by implementing agencies. Unfortunately in Malaysia, the importance of parliamentary oversight has not been given much attention. The purpose of this forum is to raise awareness among political parties and the public that parliamentary committees have been effective in well-functioning democracies to enable parliament to conduct regular oversight on ministers and civil servants and to initiate special enquiries on matters of high public interest, especially on issues involving use of public funds. Two speakers from countries practicing the Westminster model of parliamentary democracy and an MP from Indonesia will enlighten participants on how these committees function in other countries and what our parliament should and can do as the highest authority, to safeguard the people’s interests and rights.
