KUALA LUMPUR – Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman officially unveiled his book, ‘Jalan Tegak’, during the International Book Fair (PBAKL) held at the World Trade Centre (WTC) today.
Published by Karangkraf Group, the event attracted a diverse audience, eager to explore the personal and political chronicles of one of Malaysia’s most dynamic young politicians.
The launch was graced by several notable personalities. Syed Saddiq’s parents, Sharifah Mahani Syed Abdul Aziz and Syed Abdul Rahman Abdullah Al-Sagoff, along with his older brother Syed Abdullah Syed Abdul Rahman, attended the launch to show their support.
Karangkraf advisor Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub was also present to officiate the event.
‘Jalan Tegak’ delves deep into Syed Saddiq’s life, recounting his experiences from his early years to his rise as an influential politician.
The book discusses his debating journey, where he earned the title of Asia's Best Speaker and provides an insider’s perspective on political events like the Sheraton Move.
Central themes include betrayal, courage and the complexities of political life, aiming to enhance readers' political awareness and intellect.
The launch featured a moderated dialogue by reporter Ismail Adnan, which offered deeper insights into Syed Saddiq's motivations for writing the book.
"The title Jalan Tegak signifies the resilience required to navigate life's challenges.
"When we are tested, then we know who our friends are and who our enemies are and gain the strength to move forward or backward. We are not free from mistakes; there are many things that I still need to learn. In the process, I need to always stand strong,” Syed Saddiq explained, highlighting the importance of steadfastness in overcoming adversity.
He also shared personal anecdotes about his upbringing, attributing his strength and values to his parents.
"A lot of my strength came from my mother. My mother worked from 5 am daily to support us. I am very indebted to her. Meanwhile, my father is quiet but fierce. He usually works from dawn to night, so I am inspired by him in that aspect.
"Although I’m a bit shy, I’m also a bit naughty,” he remarked while explaining why he included his university and Royal Military College (RMC) experiences in the book.
He revealed that he joined the debating club during his time at the RMC to avoid ragging and bullying.
But it was this decision that led him to earn recognition as Asia's top debater.
He also mentioned climbing fences at RMC to participate in debate competitions and sharing memories of wandering around Alamanda Mall when he couldn't afford accommodation.
"I am very indebted to IIUM, without it, I wouldn’t be who I am today," he said.
Syed Saddiq also shed light on his political journey under the mentorship of former pre minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He reveals details of their working relationship and the challenges he faced, including investigations and the temptation to pursue studies at Oxford.
"The biggest dilemma I went through was back in 2017 when I had a specific threat by media outlets and police that I would be investigated and convicted.
"Allah gives opportunities at the most unexpected time, and although I was tested like that, I received an offer to continue my studies at Oxford, majoring in public policy. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but I was already involved in the political landscape, so it wouldn't be appropriate to just leave it.”
He reminisced about working with Dr Mahathir without a salary for a year, highlighting the experience as more valuable than the opportunity to study at Oxford.
The launch was also attended by Karangkraf Group Chairman Firdaus Hussamuddin, Karangkraf Book Group (GBK) Chief Operating Officer Izzat Izhar Muhammad Nasir and Group Editor-in-Chief of Sinar Harian Zamri Rambli.__