LETTER | Last Friday, in conjunction with the Yang di Pertua Negeri of Malacca’s birthday, five cabinet ministers were among those awarded the Darjah Gemilang Seri Melaka (DGSM) which carries the title of “Datuk Seri”.

Honorary titles are not something that should simply be given to any politician but must only be awarded after a strenuous vetting process.

Only those who have unquestionably contributed to society through exceptional service beyond their ordinary call of duty qualify.

Ministers who are currently still in office as well as other elected representatives generally should not receive such awards, especially solely by virtue of their office.

They are given the mandate by the people to administer and execute their duties for the betterment of society.

Simply put, it is their job to contribute to society by virtue of their office, and that cannot be construed by any stretch as something that goes beyond their call of duty.

The title awarded to these ministers is even more questionable when we take into account that they have only been in office for roughly five months.

This is too brief a period for anyone to say that any policy or action taken has brought significant improvement or contribution to society.

In fact, nothing so far can be noted as something that exceeds what is required of them.

These ministers should have done the right thing and courteously declined to accept the titles.

If politicians or ministers are continuously awarded titles by virtue of their position, this would demean the significance of the honorary title, rendering it meaningless.

The dated practice of awarding politicians or ministers honorary titles, long-practised under BN rule, should be done away with.

If they desire to have one, they must prove their worth just like everyone else.

The writer is coordinator, Lawyers For Liberty.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.