What's next for the opposition: Future generation of leaders weigh in

 

The year 2020 has not been good at all for Pakatan Harapan, which went from a first-term government back to an opposition force - and a fractured one at that.

After being soundly beaten in the Budget 2021 debate, top Harapan and opposition leaders are now manoeuvring to either reinforce their positions, stage a "political reset", or call for change in their leadership.

This is in anticipation of a snap general election in the first quarter of next year - their only real chance at retaking Putrajaya.

But what do the leaders of the next generation think?

Malaysiakini speaks to five up-and-coming politicians, to find out what they believe should be the next step for the opposition.

Their responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.

DAP's Seri Delima assemblyperson Syerleena Abdul Rashid

Priority should be on rebuilding this nation, both economically and politically. 2020 has been very challenging for all of us.

I strongly believe that we have yet to feel the full brunt of the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic, and if anything, the following years will be about re-strategising certain approaches

Malaysians, in general, are getting quite fed up with identity politics and for us to progress as a nation, we need to remove any suspicions we have about treating Malaysians as Malaysians

The sudden change of government has demoralised most Malaysians and the onus is on us to renew that hope. And to remind everyone that the struggle to uphold democracy and social justice was never meant to be an easy one.

2021 should be about focusing on pressing issues - such as economic recovery, creating jobs, access to education and rebuilding creative industries and tourism - and less politicking. Our country needs all hands on deck.

In the long run, yes, Malaysia needs better representation of young leaders, women and minorities.

It’s not just a matter of age but also a matter of making sure all groups are given the representation that is required to improve certain things in this country, but we should not forget, or even downplay the importance of experience.

PKR's Julau MP Larry Sng

In my opinion, Harapan should work with Perikatan Nasional to ensure that the government is stable until the pandemic is over.

In exchange for our support, PN should make a confidence and supply agreement with Harapan.

That way Malaysians living in opposition constituencies will be assisted in such times of need, especially since many people fall through the social safety net. The government must put politics aside and place the people’s priorities first.

GE15 can be called after the pandemic is over, and in the meantime, Harapan should work out their differences with all opposition parties in preparation for GE15.

Amanah Youth chief Shazni Munir Mohd Ithnin

The opposition must realise that they will stay strong and have the potential to win back the people's heart if they are united and work together.

The opposition must be stronger in checking and balancing PN's confusing policies, which focus only on giving political goodies to MPs to retain their slim majority.

In fact, the opposition can already start discussing how to divide seats in the forthcoming general election. Negotiations should not be rigid or closed. Willingness from all parties in the opposition bloc to negotiate and compromise will be a good start in forming a stronger, grand coalition.

There is no need for a change in opposition leader. But Harapan has to be inclusive in expanding power to Harapan Plus.

The idea of a grand coalition should be explored. Strengths in Sabah and Sarawak must be harnessed.

Warisan wirawati deputy chief Jo-Anna Sue Henley Rampas

All politicians, irrespective of parties, should spend more time in regenerating the economy and protecting the rakyat from the Covid-19 pandemic as a whole. That should be the main priority now.

But the present situation, where Pakatan Harapan and the opposition bloc are having a leadership struggle, also needs immediate attention as a snap election could be imminent.

The first move that is required is for the Harapan Presidential Council to meet and thrash out an answer to this problem.

The last presidential council meeting being cancelled as it was thought that this subject would be brought up and will be completely unhelpful.

The opposition must be able to speak honestly and forthrightly among themselves to sort out this impasse.

Changes should be made if agreed by all, and if they are found to be necessary.

Muda co-founder Dr Thanussha F Xavier

Muda's stand from the beginning is to always prioritise the people above politicking, especially now with the ongoing pandemic.

Bipartisan efforts to achieve a consensus that is beneficial to the people is the way forward.

This was executed in Johor and which Muda earnestly tried to achieve with bipartisan discussions federally so that we can do away with mundane and useless spending, such as Jasa/J-Kom, when the funding could be directed to those who really need it, such as university students.

With the failed third vote at the budget, it has become clear that the opposition block needs to re-strategise and move forward with "politik baru" (new politics), as repeatedly called for by Muda.

It is time to move on from government MPs that have manipulated some in the opposition to their tune with empty promises of toppling the government and forge ahead on being united as an opposition block.

This pivotal moment is also the perfect opportunity for the opposition block to empower young people and fresh faces in politics.

Not forgetting, including more women in politics, as the current decisions are being made by mostly men.

As far as leadership goes, regardless of who the individual is or where the individual is from, he or she should be someone who can command the respect of the opposition bloc, have the support of the people and must prioritise the rakyat above all. - Mkini