HERE’S the scoop: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently announced a RM1 bil development budget for Negri Sembilan. While that seems remarkable, the timing raises questions. Six states, including Negri Sembilan, are scheduled to hold state elections soon, leading to speculation that Anwar is trying to curry favour before the votes.
In a society where politicians often seem more interested in playing games than serving the public, honesty and responsibility are crucial.
The Anwar-led Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional (PH-BN) unity government appears to prioritise spectacle over policy. Announcing massive projects right before state elections could be a ploy to influence the vote in their favour.
As the opposition, Perikatan Nasional (PN) emphasises the importance of openness and accuracy. We acknowledge the scale of initiatives the PH-BN government took such as the RM160 mil road and bridge over the Sepang River.
However, we question the appropriateness of making these announcements close to the elections. Is this a corrupt attempt to gain support?
The PH-BN coalition government has struggled with stability due to its members’ inability to fulfil their duties honestly.
Political maneuvering and bribery harm the country by discouraging foreign investment, causing domestic strife, and breaking the law. Voters should remember that the government’s primary concern should be the people’s well-being, especially as the state elections approach.
Is this trickery at best?
Is Anwar Ibrahim’s recent announcement a legitimate concern for the people or just election season trickery? The power to discern the truth lies with the people of these states.
As the PN opposition, we advocate for transparency, integrity and accountability from leaders to move forward as a united and prosperous nation, leaving behind the drama that has characterised the PH-BN coalition government.
The peculiarities of these disclosures extend beyond their timing. The initiatives’ viability and implementation methods warrant close examination. Will the public benefit from these projects or are they empty campaign promises?
As citizens, we must ensure that the government follows through on its promises. Are the PH-BN coalition’s promises genuine, or are they empty rhetoric? People have the right to question the efficacy and sincerity of these projects and whether they serve the country’s best interests.
The upcoming elections provide an opportunity for the people to make informed choices. It’s essential to look past surface-level announcements and learn more about the PH-BN coalition government and the PN opposition. Who has consistently demonstrated openness, honesty, and genuine care for the people?
Ultimately, the people must determine the country’s direction. By remaining vigilant, asking tough questions, and demanding honesty from leaders, we believe Malaysia can avoid the disruption and instability that marred the reign of the PH-BN coalition administration.
As the PN opposition, we are committed to building a better, more transparent future for our nation. – May 8, 2023
Mahathir Mohd Rais is the Perikatan Nasional (PN) Federal Territories’ information chief.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Pic credits: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Facebook
