In a report on the unity government’s first 100 days in power, the societies said too much power is concentrated in the executive branch of the government, namely the prime minister.

“The powers should instead be distributed among state and local authorities. The prime minister’s powers should also be distributed to Sabah and Sarawak, especially towards matters concerning education framework and funds,” the report said.

The group said policy discussions in Parliament should be data-driven to ensure proper decisions are made when enacting or rejecting policies.

It called on the government to set a parliamentary calendar of a minimum of 135 days, starting from the beginning of the year, saying the previous government only had parliamentary sittings for 89 days.

“Malaysia needs a healthy and robust Parliament to function well,” it said.

On laws and policies, the group hopes that some oppressive laws would be abolished, such as the Sedition Act, Prevention of Crime Act, and the Prevention of Terrorism Act.

“These laws are notorious for having been abused in the past and the potential for misuse remains ever present,” the report said.

On political financing, it said enacting a law on political donations would help regulate how parties and politicians receive and use money, by making it a responsibility to disclose the source of the funds and the amount received.

“This law is essential for holding political parties and politicians accountable, ensuring transparency over funds, and preventing misappropriation, bribery, fraud or abuse of power where funding is concerned,” it said.