Politics

Throughout the Sheraton coup week from 23 February to 29 February, I was in many meetings of Anwar’s inner circle, which I have kept personal records and notes. The idea of an offer to Anwar to form a government without DAP did not arise as the original purpose of the Sheraton coup was exactly to remove Anwar from the equation.

We need activist, competent and empathetic governments at all levels, which exemplify good politics, as part of a collective force for positive change. In this regard, DAP politicians including local councillors can do wonders if we keep in mind our unified purpose and are armed with a common set of agendas for the benefit of ordinary Malaysians.

PAS is split between Gang Publika and Gang Ustaz. The former supports Tan Sri Muhyiddin and works very closely with Hamzah. Publika denotes Hamzah’s war room. Gang Ustaz are those who want to work with UMNO in the context of Muafakat Nasional.

What would Bersatu do? The ruling party has power and money. It has no love from the voters. The danger is that the party would use all means available to the incumbent government to continue its rule. UMNO may have to anticipate that it will be banned. There will be more buying of elected reps. Emergency may be prolonged. More opposition figures will be charged in courts on flimsy charges.

The need for a new combination of factors that can provide Malaysia with economic growth, political stability and cultural growth was made all the more poignant by the Covid-19 health crisis and the resultant deep economic crisis.

The Sheraton coup is an overreach by those who believe in the idea that a Malay-only government is good for the Malays. The last year is a living proof that a Malay-only government doesn’t guarantee that it is to the benefit of the Malays, not to mention Malaysians. The “dua darjat” outcry is so loud among the Malays because they felt it particularly strong: those who rule in the name of the Malays are causing harm to the lives of ordinary Malays.