Despite being apolitical, I do take a keen interest in the Malaysian political scene. Who doesn't, when we have elected politicians making fools of themselves in Parliament by their words and actions.

For the coming general elections, I hope those members of Parliament who have a made a spectacle of themselves in the past will not be nominated again by their party to stand for re-election.

If for some unexplained reason they do get re-nominated, then the constituents of their constituencies should send a strong message to these 'low standard candidates' and their party that their behavior in the past cannot be easily forgotten.

I am sure the majority of Malaysians wants their elected representatives to be of the highest quality. They must also be fearless when debating and voting on important bills that will have a tremendous effect on the lives of ordinary people. Hence, MPs should behave according to their conscience despite calls by their party whip to toe the line.

As for the opposition, though they are few in numbers in the present Parliament, they have performed their duties admirably. I do know that people like Lim Kit Siang and Karpal Singh and a few others like them are excellent MPs.

I know some will not agree with me but from what I have seen and read, these people have always done their duties in Parliament.

They have kept the people informed of the implications of new legislation being tabled, when these may affect the rights of the people. If not for Lim, I would not have known that two half-wit government backbenchers wanted symbols that depict Christianity in mission schools be removed. As a Christian, I was saddened and distraught..

Whether you love them or hate them, both Lim and Karpal are often seen as beacons of the opposition. I am sure most MPs will admit that Lim's incisive comments and insights into legislation and government are second to none. The same goes for Karpal - other MPs do not wish to tangle with him in debates involving the intricacies of legalities.

The coming general elections could decide the fate of some up and coming politicians and also those who may have overstayed their welcome. I look forward to seeing a more balanced Parliament where bills won't be rushed through with minimal debates.

The next echelon of elected leaders from the government and opposition should make a concerted effort to add more class into the composition of the next parliament.