In the practise of true parliamentary democracy, check and balance by the legislative is a norm and must be encouraged.

Therefore we are proud to see five Penang backbenchers abstaining to vote on the land reclamation motion in the Penang state assembly. The noble intention to abstain shows that the people’s interest is above political interest and it proves that democracy and diversity is celebrated in Pakatan Harapan.

The five backbenchers have vast experience in their respective fields and have proven time and time again that the people's interests is the utmost priority. PKR since its formation, has been a vocal critic of Umno’s dictatorship, and we will never stand emulate their intolerant ways.

The rationale behind abstaining is to protect the people’s interest. This is also in line with the primary responsibility owed by elected reps to their voters.

This motion involves the interests of the public despite being tabled by Umno.

First of all, a public hearing is mandatory before any reclamation proposal is approved. Secondly, all reclamation works must be stopped before a detailed environmental impact assessment (DEIA) report is produced. Therefore, it was correct for the five backbenchers to abstain from voting.

This is akin to urging Umno MPs to vote against Budget 2016 because of the RM2.6 billion scandals surrounding Najib Abdul Razak.

We also support Keadilan Penang Whip Ong Chin Wen's stand in abstaining to vote based on one’s conscience.

The reform struggle led by party president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail is reflecting the people’s demands, not the party’s interest.

We encourage the culture of healthy debates instead of labelling one another. It will be a disappointment to the people if Pakatan Harapan become the next BN, where Umno dominating its component parties in the coalition.

We hope that CM Lim Guan Eng will continue administering Penang with transparency and accountability as he has, and also urge that it is equally important to respect the decision of component parties in Pakatan Harapan.

GINIE LIM is deputy information chief, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).