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Saturday, 14 August 2010

Wanted: Far-reaching reforms

I notice press reports mentioning the DAP’s three promises should Pakatan take over Putrajaya:
  • RM1,000 annually for senior citizens
  • Free nationwide wifi
  • Abolition of the postal summons (saman ekor)
Shouldn’t a progressive electoral platform highlight the following:
  • the stamping out of corruption and abuse of power at all levels
  • a minimum wage or a minimum living income – more multiplier effect, given that 34 per cent of workers earn wages below the poverty line.
  • high-quality, efficient, universal healthcare at a nominal charge and an end to the privatisation of essential services
  • an immediate repeal of the ISA and other detention without trial laws and ratification of international human rights treaties
  • measures to narrow the income gap
  • reinstatement of local council elections plus village elections
  • upholding of sustainable development and environmental protection including independent EIAs and SEIAs for all significant projects
  • loans for small business folks, fisher folks and farmers
  • land titles for those with customary rights to the land
  • restoration of the independence of the judiciary, election commission
  • affordable housing for all
  • a strong social security system that would cater to senior citizens, people with disabilities, the poor, etc
  • the promotion of food self-sufficiency (but not via corporate agriculture)
  • a revamp of the education system
  • measures to address the digital divide, including adequate facilities for schools
And that’s just for starters.
I am looking for far-reaching reforms, not just superficial sweeteners.

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