Syed Saddiq's move to step down deserves praise

Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman resigning from his position as Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) president deserves praise.

This move was seen as prioritising Muda's well-being over personal interests, possibly to maintain the clean image of the youth-led party and avoid being a burden to the other leaders in the party.

It was also seen as a good example for the current generation on the responsibility towards the oraganisation and it also teaches the positive aspects of politics for future leaders.

Yesterday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court sentenced Syed Saddiq to seven years' jail, two strokes of the cane and RM10 million fine.

This was after judge Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid found the former youth and sports minister guilty of four charges of abetting in criminal breach of trust (CBT), misappropriation of property and money laundering in connection to Angkatan Bersatu Anak Muda (Armada) funds.

Right after the verdict was delivered, Syed Saddiq took responsibility by continuing to hold a meeting with the party's supreme council.

In a special press conference held by Muda, Syed Saddiq said leaders in an organisation needed to be clean and not entangled in any issues affecting personal and organisational reputation.

His firm stance could be seen through his previous decision to withdraw support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim following the unity government's move to drop the 47 corruption charges faced by the latter's deputy Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Previously, he advocated for such practices and the negative actions of leaders needed to change to gain the public's trust in members of Parliament.

From the early days of Syed Saddiq's involvment in politics, he boldly spoke out to fight and defend the people's interests.

Therefore, leaders in the country should have a big heart if they make mistakes and take actions similar to Syed Saddiq.