I read the letters of many readers discussing the actions of our good MP Shahrir Abdul Samad vis-a-vis the stand of the Umno (or BN) party whip, and I do see their points of argument. Clearly, everyone means well and wishes for good results from our MPs and governing parties. However, it is obvious to me the problem is one of structure, not individual or party performance.

Our federal system already provides for elected representatives at parliamentary and state levels. The best of the best are supposed to be at the national parliament so that they can articulate issues of the day that are of great importance to our people and our country and in relation to the world at large. State assembly representatives on the other hand, have a responsibility to do the same but at a different level but which is of no less importance. We need good people at the state level to discern and to help provide economic and social opportunities for all people regardless of race, class, ability, and religion, and in all areas of the state.

The MP for Jasin's case illustrates a need for able and honest individuals to be elected representatives. If such persons are unable to distinguish between personal interest and public office responsibility, and recognition of conflict of interest situations, then we are in trouble.

We need MPs - whether at national or state levels - to serve the people and not themselves. They, of all people, were elected to ensure a fair and level playing field for all able men and women irregardless of race, religion, age, or class, to make a decent living in their constituencies. With per chance to contribute back to society once they don't have to worry where their next meal is going to come from. Certainly, the elected representative's role is definitely not to corrupt the system, and the chair that they occupy.

Beyond these, I strongly think we need a third tier of governance if we wish to ensure our system really delivers. We need elected local government representatives. I am not sure how is the relationship between elected representatives on local government councils, authorities, boards and statutory bodies and agencies, and the state, but I would think that opening local governments to elections would provide an avenue for young, aspiring, able and honest people to serve the country according to their preferred beliefs or convictions (be it social democrat or conservative).

It is also a good source for recruitment besides exposing young people for political leadership succession purposes. As it is at the moment, I see ossification in many local councils with unqualified, originally just 'cari makan' employees or clerks only, now having a big say in local governments just because of their seniority due to years of service with that employer!

We need a rejuvenation of our local governments. This, I think, will certainly address many of the delivery issues brought up by your readers arising from the Shahrir-Said issue.

There is already a party mechanism for dealing with wayward MPs. If indeed the MP for Jasin is unable to differentiate between personal interest and public interest, then his suitability for that position is in question. If he is unable to see the conflict of interest, then he is not of the right stuff to be amongst the group of good people leading our country. What do you think corruption is? And where do you think it begins?