PETALING JAYA - Although some might consider it pushing his luck, former youth and sports minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman regarded his move to the opposition bloc as an advantage in his life.
The Muar Member of Parliament said he was optimistic about being in the opposition as it was easier to spot the government's mistakes through the opposition's perspective as well as maintaining checks and balances.
"I am optimistic because I know that even the leaders of the country are bound to make mistakes. I am optimistic because I know our country's fundamentals are strong.
"What are these fundamentals? Well, our people are critical thinkers. They can support you today and oppose you tomorrow. They don't blindly support.
"Our citizens are educated. At the same time, our checks and balances system needs improvement," he said.
He said despite the mistakes or shortcomings from the government, as an opposition, he would make criticisms, but his criticisms came with suggestions for improvement.
"Even though I may disagree with many top leaders of the country, it does not mean I don't respect them or constantly oppose them.
"Because ultimately, we may have different opinions, but we share the same goal of developing the country," he said during a press conference on his new book entitled "Jalan Tegak" which will be launched on June 2.
He also praised former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad whom he had worked with before for his clear strategy and mission in politics.
"I can't deny the fact that he (Dr Mahathir) is a straightforward person. When he does not like something, he makes it very clear," Syed Saddiq said.
On the Undi 18 movement, he said it should serve as a stark reminder that the people have great power to determine the country's future.
He said the basic responsibility of a politician was to stick to the hands-on concept or "going down to the field" using the proper channels to ensure swift and effective results.
"This is not micromanagement but a responsibility.
"Politicians often like to say "still under study" for any issues that need immediate attention and a change of policy, but this is an excuse to stall. The maximum period to get something done in the country should be two weeks," he said.
He added that he hoped that in the future, Malaysia will see the government and the opposition working together.