By Dr. Mahathir Mohd Rais
Editor’s Note: Mahathir will be contesting for a position on the Majlis Pimpinan Tertinggi in the upcoming Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU) leadership election next month. As a long-time contributor to our publication, we have given him the opportunity to share his pitch on why he believes he is the right candidate for the role. For transparency, we have interviewed Mahathir once virtually through our YouTube channel last year, and all other interactions have taken place via email.
Under the leadership of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (TSMY), BERSATU is committed to addressing the shortcomings of the current PH-BN government.
As I, Dr Mahathir Mohd Rais, contest for a role on the supreme council, I am dedicated to reinforcing BERSATU’s role as a party that defends the core values of all Malaysians, while embracing our diverse heritage and aspirations.
In today’s political climate, BERSATU must act as a force for stability and unity.
We see a government that too often seems out of touch with the challenges faced by ordinary Malaysians.
BERSATU offers a different path—one rooted in respecting the rights and contributions of every citizen. We are committed to upholding the special position of the Malays, while ensuring that equal rights and opportunities are available to all Malaysians, regardless of background.
Promoting Bahasa Melayu as our national language is essential, but we also respect and celebrate the linguistic and cultural diversity that enriches our nation.
I believe in the importance of protecting our heritage and institutions, including the role of the Malay Rulers and our Constitutional Monarchy, as these have provided stability and unity for generations. However, these values must go hand in hand with a commitment to inclusivity.
BERSATU stands for a Malaysia where every citizen feels recognized, valued, and heard.
Together, we can build a nation that draws strength from its diversity and fosters respect and understanding across all communities.
Furthermore, I am committed to defending democratic freedoms, as recent events have shown how quickly these can come under threat.
Free speech, fair elections, and the right to peaceful assembly are fundamental rights that all Malaysians deserve. BERSATU, under TSMY’s leadership, will continue to protect these liberties, recognizing that a vibrant democracy depends on the active participation and voices of its people.
At the heart of BERSATU’s vision is a dedication to education and language.
We believe that by advancing Bahasa Melayu as a language of knowledge and unity, while also honoring the right of every Malaysian to celebrate their mother tongue, we are building a stronger national identity that respects our differences.
This is a commitment to a Malaysia where diversity is a source of strength and where everyone’s heritage is respected.
As a candidate, I seek to work alongside all members of BERSATU to ensure the government remains accountable, inclusive, and committed to a vision of unity and prosperity.
This is a future we can only build together, and with your support, I am ready to help make it a reality for all Malaysians.
About the author: Dr. Mahathir Mohd Rais, Bersatu Federal Territories State Secretary. This is an opinion column. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this publication.
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