Sabah Chief Minister and Warisan president Shafie Apdal said he continues to support former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad over the current Bersatu-led Perikatan Nasional (PN) government because he is confident of Mahathir's leadership and ability to bring about meaningful change.
"I support Mahathir because I am confident with his leadership from the aspect of bringing changes despite his age.
"Despite his age, when I look at his thoughts, physical ability [...] this is a sign for us to see and judge who is better (to lead) even though others are younger.
"As such, we need to cooperate (with Mahathir) to continue nation-building," he said.
He was responding to a question on why he chose to continue supporting Mahathir despite being invited by Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin to join his faction.
Shafie also said that the three main PN parties - Bersatu, Umno and PAS - only represent the Malays in a country with a multi-ethnic background.
"Look at our current (political) structure. It worries me.
"Where will the Chinese, Indians, Dusuns, Ibans and other communities go?" he asked.
Shafie also called on all Pakatan Harapan parties to come together and present a strong united front for the interest of the people.
The chief minister said his priority since the day he entered politics is to serve the people and even during his Umno days, he shared with others that the people's interest must be prioritised.
"We should uphold the principle that prioritises the interest of the people instead of the prioritising to become the eighth prime minister or prime minister of whichever term," he said, adding that PKR president Anwar Ibrahim to "give up his time and help Mahathir".
During the interview, Shafie also touched on the calls for Malay interests to be defended.
He asked why there should be such calls when there are many Islamic institutions in the country such as Islamic universities, Islamic banks and Islamic hospitals as well as halal food everywhere.
"Why do we have to blame others to justify our own demands? Should we say it is Bill Gates' fault he is a billionaire and we are not? he said.
Citing the Quran which emphasised those who work hard for a living will be rewarded, Shafie said Chinese millionaires cannot be blamed when they work hard to earn a living. - Mkini
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