SHAH ALAM – The removal of two Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) assemblymen from their positions in the Perlis state executive council (Exco) does not signal the end of their political futures.
Bersatu Armada Chief Muhammad Hilman Idham emphasised that this decision should be seen as an opportunity for both representatives to engage more closely with the people.
"As political leaders, if we are removed, we should not despair. This is not a sign that our political careers are over.
"Instead, we should use this opportunity to be on the ground, listening to the voices of the people, especially during these challenging times when the public is facing far greater struggles than during the previous prime minister's leadership,” he said during an interview with Sinar at the Selangor state legislative assembly building.
Previously, it was reported that Tambun Tulang assemblyman Wan Zikri Afthar Ishak and Pauh assemblyman Megat Hashirat Hassan were removed from their Exco positions.
The three newly appointed Exco members include Guar Sanji assemblyman from Pas, Mohd Ridzuan Hashim and two Bersatu representatives, Kuala Perlis assemblyman Abu Bakar Hamzah and Sena assemblyman Datin Marzita Mansor.
Commenting further, Hilman expressed confidence that the affected assemblymen, whether reappointed or not, would continue focusing on serving the people of Perlis, who grappled with the impact of federal government policies.
The Gombak Setia assemblyman stressed that he was informed the changes were made under the state's legal framework, allowing the leadership to evaluate the performance of each Exco member.
"The appointment of new Exco members is within the authority of the Menteri Besar, but it occurred harmoniously through consultations between the parties in Perikatan Nasional (PN). For Bersatu, this is a normal process.
"We previously had three Exco members in Perlis, and now the number remains the same. This provides an opportunity for the newly appointed Exco members to deliver their best service to the people of Perlis, as our mission in Perlis differs, for example, from that in Selangor,” he stated.
He added that PN’s mission in Perlis was to defend its victory in the upcoming 16th General Election (GE16).
Meanwhile, he highlighted that Bersatu’s Annual General Assembly would serve as a platform for the party, particularly the Armada wing, to lead significant changes in the nation amid the current economic hardships faced by the people.
Hilman pointed out that the assembly provides an avenue for the party to strengthen its resolution and commitment to drive these changes.
"This is where we debate and discuss policy issues and the needs of the people based on the current situation. It also provides an opportunity for Bersatu to reflect and shift towards a new political dynamic, especially as we have just concluded the party elections,” he said.
Bersatu’s Annual General Assembly is scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday, while the associated wings, Srikandi Muda, Bersekutu, Srikandi and Armada, will hold their conferences on Friday.