THE sting of betrayal cut deep for Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, a man who dedicated 27 years of his life to PKR, driven by a vision of a multiracial, progressive Malaysia.
Reflecting on the bitter outcome of the recent party election, he wrote, “I was deeply moved when a few young party members shed tears, pleading with me not to walk away from PKR despite the sting of betrayal.”
Despite a resounding defeat, Rafizi’s gratitude to ordinary Malaysians who championed his campaign shone through. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much; only Allah can repay your kindness,” he said.
His political journey began long before PKR’s formal founding — during the early days of the reformasi movement. Guided by the belief in democratic competition, Rafizi hoped to curb corruption and uplift meritocracy.
His sacrifices were significant: leaving behind a promising corporate career at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s request, serving as Selangor Economic Advisory Office staff chief and weathering 16 court cases — seven criminal, nine civil — for exposing scandals like 1Malaysia Development Bhd.
“I have probably spent more time in court than the average lawyer,” he quipped, recalling a suspended three-year sentence under the Official Secrets Act.
And yet, the defeat brought not despair, but release. “I feel a great deal of relief that I can return to living a private life, away from the shenanigans of the corridors of power,” he admitted.
Rafizi’s commitment was never about titles or positions. “I joined PKR because of the promise of this ideal. I did not join for ministerial positions,” he emphasised.
For him, PKR’s mission has always been bigger than any individual. Even in disillusionment, he encouraged perseverance: “We must trust the process. Allah knows best what is good for us.”
Now, with more time on his hands, Rafizi is turning back to the grassroots. He remains committed to working with everyday Malaysians, his idealism intact.
“For every problem, there are multiple solutions,” he said.
And the emotion he witnessed in younger party members reminded him that his struggle wasn’t in vain.
“There is hope after all.”
Main photo credit: Rafizi’s X account
