KUALA LUMPUR: Members of Parliament welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's announcement that an independent committee be set up to probe the controversial MMS video clip case.

They however cautioned the need for impartiality of the committee in not victimising the victim or the police, but rather resolve the matter rationally to the benefit of the victim and the police.

Backbenchers Club president Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad (BN-Johor Baru) said it was a good move because the committee would help the police to put its house in order.

"However you must take cognisance of the fact that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) is also doing his part to reform the (Royal Malaysian Police) force," he said, adding that members of the disbanded Royal Commission on the police force could be reappointed to provide a balanced report.

"The setting up of the committee should not lead to police bashing. It must benefit the force as well," he stressed.

Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang (DAP-Ipoh Timur) said it was good move but added that a stronger stand (by the Prime Minister) should be appropriate based on the circumstances of the case.

"Nonetheless, it is a clear message from the Prime Minister to repudiate the Deputy IGP'statement in exonerating the police personnel from the ear-squat scandal," he said, adding that only credible members be appointed as committee members.

He also hoped the outcome of the committee would not go the same way as the Royal Commission on the police force which came up with 125 recommendations which are yet to be adopted and implemented.

Teresa Kok (DAP-Seputeh), who made public the MMS video clip last week, said she welcomed the move initiated by the government.

She added that the identity of the committee members should be revealed and the outcome of the findings made public.

"However, the most important move is for the government to accept and implement the 125 recommendations by the Royal Commission on the police force as soon as possible, with emphasis on the establishment of the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission."

Other reaction to the announcement:

• Transparency International Malaysia president Datuk Param Cumaraswamy:

"The public need to know exactly the terms of reference of such a body in the light of the extensive recom mendations made by the royal commission's report which are still not implemented.

The prime minister should implement all recommendations of the commission without delay."

• Women's Aid Organisation executive director Ivy Josiah:

"For the public to have confidence in the independent body, it should not comprise any police officers or expolice officers. There should be representation of the MPs, both from the ruling party and the Opposition, and the target should be on the procedure, not the whistleblower."

• Bar Council president Yeo Yang Poh:

"This is an example of what can be achieved if there is political will. It is the appropriate thing to do."

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