SHAH ALAM - Bersatu is gearing up for the upcoming General Election (GE16) with a comprehensive policy framework and clear vision, according to Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah.
Positioning itself as a constructive Opposition, Bersatu focused on offering actionable plans for immediate implementation should it return to government.
"Our approach is simple, we don't just enter the Dewan Rakyat to criticise; we also offer constructive proposals," Saifuddin said in an exclusive interview with Sinar Daily.
This forms the foundation of all our major policies, especially in education, where I lead the portfolio for Perikatan Nasional (PN).
Saifuddin then cited that the party had already crafted proposals for education reform, which were shared with both the Higher Education Ministry and the Education Ministry.
"We have concrete ideas for 'reformasi pendidikan.' When we govern, we can’t afford delays; we need policies ready from day one," he added.
Replacing Umno
Meanwhile, reflecting on Bersatu's initial aim to replace Umno, Saifuddin acknowledged the evolving complexities.
"Eight years ago, we aimed to replace Umno. But which Umno are we talking about? Times have changed, and people's expectations and mindsets toward politics have shifted," he said.
He highlighted that the youth today have a very different perspective compared to earlier generations.
The Indera Mahkota MP stressed that as Bersatu continued defining itself, it must communicate its position clearly to the electorate.
"You can't explain yourself to the people unless you know exactly what you stand for.
"Our constitution mentions Malay rights, but not everyone understands its full scope.
"It outlines the basic rights and traditions, but the heritage and philosophies aren’t fully captured in legal frameworks," he said.
Saifuddin also pointed out that constitutions worldwide often omit ideological explanations, requiring parties to express values through other means, like books or manifestos.
Bersatu’s Stance on Right-Wing Politics and Bersekutu
When asked about right-wing politics and the potential for the Bersekutu wing to become a formal part of the party, Saifuddin clarified that Bersatu had no interest in becoming a right-wing party.
"Bersatu is not interested in right-wing politics. We believe in gradual steps, especially with Bersekutu," he said.
Saifuddin stated that he was part of the team that amended the party's constitution to allow Bersekutu's formation.
He envisioned Bersekutu evolving into a fully-fledged wing within Bersatu, like Srikandi Muda and Armada, with its organisational structure extending from branch to central levels.
"Currently, Bersekutu members are appointed by division chiefs to the committee, but I believe that in five years, we will formalise it further," he said.