AMANAH president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu – popularly known as Mat Sabu – is known for being comical when giving speeches.
But perhaps none could top his calls over the weekend for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to leverage the latter’s global reputation by orchestrating a new world order to counter Israel.
Mohamad who is also the Agriculture and Food Security Minister made the remark before a crowd of 10,000 during the Himpunan Pembebasan Palestin rally at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur on Sunday (Aug 4)
Does Mohamad understand the intricacies of global diplomacy for him to even suggest such an outlandish proposition? Does he think that Anwar can single-handedly challenge a global system that has been deeply entrenched?
But beyond the lubricity of this international ambition, has Mohamad forgotten that there are more pressing domestic issues that demand immediate attention?
Rising costs of living, inflation and economic instability are plaguing the everyday lives of Malaysians. Perhaps, instead of donning the cape of a global crusader, the Kota Raja MP should remind Anwar to focus on the home front where the battle against economic hardship is very real and immediate.
The average Malaysian is grappling with higher grocery bills, escalating fuel prices and stagnant wages. These are the issues that hit closest to home as families struggle to make ends meet.
It’s all well and good to dream of forming a new world order but how about coming up with a new economic policy that alleviates the financial strain on Malaysian households first?
Anwar who is also the Finance Minister should focus on implementing policies that curb inflation, create jobs and support small businesses. This is where his influence can make a tangible difference or where his leadership can be felt most acutely.
Besides, Mohamad’s grandiose idea sounds hypocritical when Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is being acquired by a wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, a company with a clear pro-Zionist stance.
So, while his speech might have roused the crowd and garnered headlines, it does little to put food on the table for families suffering under the yoke of inflation or stagnant wages.
Malaysia will continue to look to their leaders for solutions to the issues that matter most to them. It’s time to focus on domestic priorities. After all, charity begins at home. – Sug 6, 2024
