KUALA LUMPUR, May 5 — Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has urged Malaysians to remember that elections is not a game of chance, and that voters should carefully distinguish between what is achievable and “mere promises”.
Abdullah said elections are also not excuses to change for the sake of change since there is no such thing as a perfect system.
“Malaysians should be honest with themselves and carefully evaluate the electoral promises made by political parties. The promise of spring may lead to a glorious summer but at the same time can also end up in a winter of discontent for our country,” he said in a statement today.
Abdullah said the 14th general election (GE14) will decide on the government that will steer Malaysia, as its stance on the precipice of becoming a developed nation in an age of globalism with its many challenges.
“The challenges we face in the coming years can only be overcome by a strong, stable and experienced government. A strong and stable government can only be formed on the back of a strong mandate, and one that is anchored by leaders who genuinely work together for people's benefit.
"Any government comprising people of differing and opposing political ideologies who only come together for the sole purpose of wresting political power will not be good for the country. It is unwise to elect leaders who share the same bed but yet have different dreams,” he said.
Abdullah attributed the country's tremendous post-Independence progress to its stability and leadership, who were genuine and sincere in working together while sharing the same aspirations and dreams for Malaysia.
“In building the nation our leaders from the very beginning formulated consistent and progressive policies, with strong and sound fiscal and economic management.
“Throughout the years the BN government and its precursor Perikatan consistently had a smooth transitions of power from one prime minister to another which ensured the country’s continued stability and success,” he said.
Speaking as a former statesman, Abdullah said he hoped to see higher levels of political maturity among the candidates in GE14, and for the parties to rationally embrace democracy instead of basing it on animosity and anger.
“As an elderly man who loves his country as much as any other Malaysian, I would also like to remind those contesting this election that you do so out of a sense of duty to your country and to serve your fellow citizens, and not merely to seize power for power’s sake,” he said, adding that they should prioritise the people's interest over the agenda or political ambition of any particular group or individual.
“Whether we progress or regress, live in misery or prosperity; live in dignity or ignominy is all in our hands and for us to decide. I pray that this election will be conducted smoothly and peacefully, and the outcome on May 9 will be one in the best interest of the nation that we love and cherish,” he said.
