ALL eligible Malaysian citizens must come out ‘in droves’ to vote on Nov 19 lest the 15th General Election (GE15) will be an avenue for unqualified and incompetent leaders to administer the country.
In a joint declaration, the KL & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia and the LLG Cultural Development Centre also reminded voters should scrutinise the qualifications and capability of the candidates based on their backgrounds and track records.
“GE15 is a platform for the rakyat to choose leaders who are competent, honest and trustworthy. It is also a place where we remove candidates who are selfish, abuse power and are corrupt,” the joint declaration pointed out.
The declaration further calls on Malaysians who love their nation to prioritise the following three qualities when casting their votes:
- Capability: A leader must possess the ability to carry out his duty well and with calibre. A leader who is capable and influential will be able to produce even more leaders under his stewardship.
- Trustworthiness and accountability: It is of utmost importance that a leader can be held to his word. His words must be in line with his behaviour and actions. Trust is not demanded but built and earned by one’s track record and past efforts.
“A candidate’s involvement with corruption, treachery, abuse of power and misappropriation of funds must be duly deliberated by the rakyat,” reckoned the joint declaration.
- Honesty: Honesty is essential to building people’s confidence in a leader. Slander, unfulfilled promises, self-serving ploys and deceit are not befitting of an honest leader. Such a leader will be endeared and trusted by the rakyat.
“Only capable, trustworthy and honest individuals can lead Malaysia to become a country which is harmonious, developed and well-respected by others,” the joint declaration stressed. “The rakyat will unite behind such figures and support and share their leadership’s ideas and aspirations.”
Last but not least, the joint declaration also reminded all candidates and political parties to adhere to principles which ensure a fair and clean election; to convey opinions which are beneficial to the country’s development; and to avoid commenting on sensitive religious issues or incite racist sentiments. – Nov 7, 2022
Main pic credit: Bernama
