Choose honest, dedicated candidates

HAVING lived in a relatively peaceful, stable and successful country since Merdeka, Malaysian voters are confronted with a vital choice of voting for continuity or change in government.
Continuity of the government means there would be a smooth transfer of power.
There would be no significant administrative disruptions especially at federal level.
The old policies would most probably continue with some tweaking to reflect the changed mood of the voters.
The economy will continue to grow with stability on its own steam.
The New Economic Policies that are related to race-based economics, preferences and protection would continue to the detriment of the poorer sections of the economy of all races.
We will also continue to have high costs of living because of the protective policies.
A new government could adopt a fresh approach to policy formulation and implementation that would emphasise more fairness to all races and religions and more equitable socio-economic policies.
Ketuanan and racial and religious hegemony could be reduced and wasatiyah adopted more seriously especially against extremists.
The new government could focus more on building real national unity and addressing the weaknesses of the old government.
The downside could be its relative inability at least in the short term to effectively take over and run the governments at federal and state levels with efficiency.
It may lack experience in governing particularly at federal level even if the new government is led by top leaders from the old government.
The Cabinet will be made up of new and untried leaders, who of course could learn on the job. But it will take time.
The voters may face the dilemma of uncertainty, insecurity, a lack of confidence and doubts as to the capacity and capability of any new government. Again it's a risk that has to be taken and only time will tell.
How do we try to resolve this dilemma for voters?
First, since there are little real ideological differences in the manifestos of all major political parties, we could use the power of the peoples' vote on the careful choice of candidates in each constituency.
We should choose only honest, able, service-oriented and dedicated election candidates with a proven track record.
Second, we should reject candidates known to be extremists, deviationists, racists and religious bigots who have run down other religions in our precious multicultural society.
Third, all candidates who have said or done anything to erode national unity should be rejected.
We should vote only for candidates who aspire to make Malaysia great, united and moderate, progressive and prosperous and most importantly united and not polarised and divided.
To choose the right leaders we have to turn up in full force and vote wisely.
Jom undi!
And God guide us and bless Malaysia.
Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam
Chairman
Asli Centre for
Public Policy Studies