SHAH ALAM – PKR’s reform mandate to the people hinges on their actual benefit from government policies and programmes rather than the number of party representatives in the government, said PKR secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He also went on to say that when leaders focus on flaunting wealth instead of sticking to their values, it does not show a real commitment to change promised to the people who voted for them.
“Successful reform – whether in our eyes or the people’s – will be measured by how we succeed in translating it via policies and programmes that the people could enjoy.
“It is not about how many PKR representatives become ministers, state executive councillors, and lawmakers. No, the real measurement is when we hold power and successfully translate the understanding of reform through government policies,” he said at the party’s 25th anniversary special convention at the Ideal Convention Centre today.
Saifuddin also called on PKR’s delegates to adopt a high sense of comprehension of the party’s fight for reform, as any effort would be futile if the people did not understand.
“When the mandate is centred on the people’s high expectations, we have to fulfil it. If we do not, then ‘jatuh’ (we will fall),” he said.
“We must also have a high competency in understanding the meaning of our fight. If we talk about idealism but lack administrative competency and political will (to disseminate it) when we get the mandate, then it will not reach the people.”
As such, Saifuddin stressed that PKR must do what is right for the people, adding that its leaders should strive to retain the party’s growing number of members, which has reached over 1.15 million as of March.
Meanwhile, Saifuddin, who is also home minister, recalled that the party president, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has consistently embodied optimism as a leader.
He frequently motivated members, especially during times of recovering from significant losses in past elections, Saifuddin said.
Saifuddin recalled one notable incident which occurred during the 2004 general election when PKR secured only one seat, with Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail winning in Permatang Pauh.
Despite the setbacks, Saifuddin said that even while serving his prison sentence at the time, Anwar still wrote a congratulatory letter to PKR for their efforts in the polls.
Anwar also urged the party to undertake a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and weaknesses to better prepare for the future, he added.
Earlier today, PKR vice president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad announced the launch of the Felo Keadilan programme.
This initiative aims to educate participants about PKR’s vision, leadership principles, and grassroots policy structures.
Participants will delve into various topics, including political spectrums, effective communication of policies, and the Madani aspiration.
The fellowship programme is currently only open to PKR members aged between 22 to 40. Interested individuals must also possess an undergraduate certificate or demonstrate activism experience from any discipline. – April 21, 2024