Comparing Transparency in Malaysian Governments: Barisan Nasional vs Pakatan Harapan

Is there a clear winner in terms of transparency between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) governments? According to data and public perception, the truth is not so black and white. Both governments have their own shortcomings when it comes to transparency, which raises questions about the effectiveness and openness of governmental practices.

The Myth of Transparency

Our initial thought might be that transparency is something inherently difficult to achieve, even for powerful organizations like governments. And even esteemed democracies in the world, such as the United States, tend to have layers of secrecy and bureaucratic inefficiencies. Government is truly one of the most secretive organizations, and it's easy to see why given the nature of state affairs.

Barisan Nasional (BN)

Barisan Nasional (BN) is a coalition that ruled Malaysia for nearly six decades. Over this period, BN faced numerous critics and allegations regarding transparency. Their practices were often shrouded in secrecy, leading to mounting dissatisfaction among the public. BN supporters might argue that they were not as transparent as many made them out to be. However, what's intriguing is the perception that PH supporters often held regarding the transparency of their own government.

Pakatan Harapan (PH)

Upon taking office, PH promised to foster greater transparency within the government. However, the lack of transparency in internal matters, particularly bickering among coalition partners, often overshadowed these promises. The internal conflicts were bloated with pretensions and lies that the public could easily see through. Despite this, die-hard DAP supporters remained firm in their belief that PH was more transparent.

Governmental Practices and Media Influence

The effectiveness of transparency often depends on the media's ability to report on government practices. In the past, media outlets like the Star newspaper faced significant challenges due to their reporting on government-unfavorable news. However, the current era seems to have brought about a shift, with a distinct focus on favored news stories by certain media outlets. It's noteworthy that not all news is blocked by the government, but some news seems to be reported more frequently and with a particular bias.

Conclusion and Reflection

Despite the challenges and criticisms, the quest for transparency in governmental practices remains vital. It's essential for ensuring good governance and fostering public trust. Both BN and PH have lessons to learn from, and the path to greater transparency is likely a gradual one. Moving forward, it's crucial for all stakeholders, including the media, to collaborate towards creating a more transparent and accountable government.

In conclusion, while transparency in both BN and PH governments has its challenges, it's clear that there is a need for continuous improvement in this area. The key to moving forward is embracing open dialogue and ensuring that governmental practices are transparent to the public.

Keywords: transparency, Malaysian governments, BN vs PH, political organization, governmental practices