I'd also like to see it be a requirement, but only as far as ()'s are concerned. I mean as you mentioned, all (or most) major languages require "parent" ()'s around a condition--why should mIRC be different? I know several who have started scripting in mIRC and moved on to PHP, C, C++, or even java and they notice the syntax demands them to use them.
I really don't want to start an argument, just putting in my 2 cents. IMO, I really don't think it'd be that harmful if you added the requirement. Most scripters with the skill and knowledge of making complex and sophisticated scripts (i.e. ones where losing backwards compatability could kill hours/days/weeks of work) already use 'proper' syntax. But then again, you have the others such as qwerty whom do not use them. I mean no offence meant, but ()'s are the way to go.
