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People's views not same as those with lust for power, says PM's aide

People’s Views Not Same as Those with Lust for Power, Says PM’s Aide

KUALA LUMPUR: In a pointed rebuke to critics and political opportunists, an aide to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized that the perspectives of ordinary Malaysians starkly contrast with those driven by an insatiable "lust for power." Speaking at a community event in Putrajaya on July 27, 2025, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid, the Prime Minister's political secretary, highlighted the disconnect between grassroots sentiments and the ambitions of certain elites who prioritize personal gain over national unity.

The remarks come amid escalating political tensions in Malaysia, where opposition figures and former allies have been vocal in their criticisms of the unity government's policies. Zahid's comments appear to target individuals within the political spectrum who have been accused of stirring unrest to advance their own agendas. "The rakyat's views are grounded in everyday realities—economic stability, affordable living, and social harmony," Zahid stated during his address. "But there are those whose vision is clouded by a lust for power, seeing every issue as a ladder to climb rather than a problem to solve."

This statement resonates deeply in the current Malaysian political landscape, which has seen a resurgence of debates over governance, corruption, and economic reforms. The unity government, formed after the hung parliament of the 15th general election in 2022, has been navigating a delicate balance of coalitions, including Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional, and other regional parties. Critics argue that internal power struggles have hampered progress, while supporters like Zahid defend the administration's efforts to foster inclusivity.

Expanding on his theme, Zahid drew from recent public opinion surveys and grassroots feedback to illustrate his point. He referenced a nationwide poll conducted by a local think tank earlier this month, which showed that over 65% of Malaysians prioritize job creation and inflation control over political maneuvering. "The people want leaders who listen, not those who lecture from ivory towers," he said. "Their concerns are about putting food on the table, educating their children, and ensuring a peaceful society—not about who gets the next ministerial post or how to topple a government for personal glory."

Zahid's speech also touched on historical parallels, invoking the lessons from Malaysia's post-independence era. He reminded the audience of how founding fathers like Tunku Abdul Rahman emphasized unity over division, warning that the "lust for power" has historically led to instability in nations across Southeast Asia. "Look at our neighbors," he urged. "When power becomes an obsession, societies fracture. We in Malaysia have built a resilient democracy precisely because we've valued the people's voice over individual ambitions."

The aide's comments were not without context. Recent weeks have seen a flurry of political activity, including rumors of no-confidence motions in Parliament and defections among MPs. Opposition leader Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, from Perikatan Nasional, has been particularly outspoken, accusing the government of economic mismanagement amid rising costs of living. In response, Zahid accused such figures of exploiting public discontent for their own ends. "These are not genuine concerns; they are calculated moves by those who cannot accept being out of power," he asserted. "The rakyat sees through this facade. They know that true leadership is about service, not supremacy."

Delving deeper into the societal implications, Zahid highlighted how this divergence in views affects policy-making. He pointed to the government's Madani initiatives, which focus on sustainable development, digital economy growth, and social welfare programs. "Programs like the Rahmah Cash Aid and targeted subsidies are direct responses to the people's needs," he explained. "Yet, those with a lust for power dismiss them as insufficient, not because they care, but because they seek to undermine confidence in the leadership."

The event where Zahid spoke was a town hall organized by the Prime Minister's Office, attended by community leaders, NGOs, and ordinary citizens from various ethnic backgrounds. Participants echoed his sentiments, with one attendee, a small business owner from Selangor, sharing how political instability has deterred investments. "We need stability, not constant bickering," she said. Another, a youth representative, praised the government's youth empowerment programs but called for more transparency to counter misinformation spread by power-hungry politicians.

Zahid also addressed the role of social media in amplifying distorted views. "In the digital age, those with lust for power use platforms to spread half-truths and sow discord," he warned. "But the people's wisdom prevails—they engage in real conversations, in markets and mosques, not just online echo chambers." He urged Malaysians to remain vigilant and support leaders who embody humility and dedication.

This isn't the first time aides to the Prime Minister have defended the administration against such criticisms. Earlier this year, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil similarly called out "power grabbers" for prioritizing politics over progress. Zahid's latest remarks build on this narrative, positioning the unity government as a bulwark against self-serving interests.

Analysts suggest that these statements are strategic, aimed at consolidating support ahead of potential by-elections or the next general election, due by 2027. Political commentator Dr. Bridget Welsh from the University of Nottingham Malaysia noted that "Zahid's framing taps into a widespread fatigue with elite-driven politics. It's a reminder that public sentiment often favors pragmatism over ideology."

However, opposition voices have dismissed Zahid's comments as deflection. A spokesperson for Perikatan Nasional retorted that the aide's words reflect the government's own insecurities. "If the people's views truly mattered, why ignore calls for electoral reforms and anti-corruption measures?" they questioned.

Zahid concluded his address with an optimistic note, calling for national solidarity. "Let us align our actions with the people's views, not the whims of those blinded by power," he said. "Malaysia’s future depends on collective effort, not individual conquests."

The speech has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with hashtags like #RakyatFirst and #NoToPowerLust trending. Supporters praise it as a timely reminder of democratic values, while detractors see it as partisan rhetoric. As Malaysia continues to evolve in its multi-ethnic, multi-party democracy, such discourses underscore the ongoing tension between public aspirations and political ambitions.

In essence, Zahid's message serves as a clarion call to prioritize the collective good. By contrasting the grounded perspectives of the populace with the self-interested pursuits of a few, he reinforces the unity government's commitment to people-centric governance. Whether this will quell the rising tide of criticism remains to be seen, but it certainly adds fuel to the debate on what truly drives Malaysian politics in 2025.

This episode highlights broader themes in contemporary Malaysian society: the quest for equitable development, the pitfalls of power dynamics, and the enduring influence of public opinion. As the nation grapples with global economic pressures, including inflation and supply chain disruptions, leaders like Zahid are positioning themselves as defenders of the common man against elitist overreach.

Looking ahead, the government faces challenges in translating these words into action. Initiatives such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap and digital inclusion programs will test the administration's ability to align with public views. Meanwhile, those accused of lusting for power may intensify their efforts, potentially leading to more confrontations in Parliament and beyond.

Ultimately, Zahid's remarks encapsulate a fundamental truth in politics: power, when pursued blindly, alienates the very people it claims to serve. In Malaysia's vibrant democracy, the rakyat's voice remains the ultimate arbiter, guiding the nation toward a future defined by shared prosperity rather than divisive ambitions. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full Free Malaysia Today Article at:
[ https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/07/27/peoples-views-not-same-as-those-with-lust-for-power-says-pms-aide ]