Patriot sets up platform for Malaysians to share views with GE14 candidates

SUBANG JAYA: In an effort to boost the people and civil society demands from 14th General Election (GE14) candidates of all sides of the political divide, the National Patriots Association (Patriot) will organise a public forum called "Forum Aspirasi Rakyat" on May 6.
Its president, Brigadier-General (Rtd) Datuk Mohamed Arshad Raji, said the association welcomes all individuals as well as NGOs, associations and groups to give their views and aspirations for the government.
"All top coalition political leaders and party leaders from all sides of the political divide will be invited to the forum as audience.
"The platform will give the much needed opportunity for Malaysians to convey their views to the politicians. For politicians, it gives them the opportunity to better understand the needs of the people and to mingle with them," he told reporters at the Patriot's office at USJ9, here today.
Arshad said the event, which will be held at the Mines International Convention Centre beginning at 2pm, has already received support from several NGOs such as the G25, National Human Rights Society (Hakam), The Malaysian Consultative Council of Budhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBHST), as well as Orang Asli groups.
"We have invited many NGOs so far and have also invited party leaders across various political divides. We understand if the party leaders are unable to make it as it falls during campaigning season but we are hoping that they would send their representatives or even candidates who are willing to sacrifice their time to listen to the people's concerns," he said.
He emphasised that while the event is open to all, there would be strict observation of conduct during the session.
"Those wishing to voice out their concerns will be asked to do so in a polite and orderly manner. Respecful language is preferred with no ridiculing, no derogatory language and no political campaigning allowed.
"Speakers are to state only the aspirations of the group and for the nation," he said.
Over 1,000 people are expected to grace the event, Arshad said with a communique to be released to the media and the public at the end of the forum.
"This involves a compilation and summary of all points from paticipating NGOs and groups which will also be delivered to the coalition parties that will form the next government," he said.
Those interested to participate in the forum may contact Lt Col (Rtd) Prof Ahmad Ghazali (019-3847965), Lt Col (Rtd) Ajaya Kumar (0192385603, Capt Dr Wong Ang Peng (0133399898) and JD Lovrencier (017-2399049) for further details.