Can Sama fix Malaysia's political landscape? Former Bersih chief new initiative sparks hope for change

SHAH ALAM - In a bold move towards fostering a stable nation and ensuring government accountability, the Stability and Accountability for Malaysia (Sama) initiative has emerged as a beacon of hope for a more transparent and equitable Malaysia.

Spearheaded by former Bersih chairman Thomas Fann, the initiative, with its name standing for Stability and Accountability for Malaysia, is set to play a crucial role in the evolving landscape of Malaysian politics.

“Reflecting on our experiences with Bersih over the last five years, during my tenure as chairman, it became evident that Malaysia is transitioning towards a more multiparty democracy, with diverse party affiliations gaining support.

“In light of this, it becomes imperative for these parties to collaborate in charting the nation's course forward.

"Our role is to contribute by proposing institutional reform ideas, such as advocating for equal constituency development funds to ensure fair allocations for all elected MPs,” he told Sinar Daily.

Thomas also stressed that Sama not only aligns with the right principles but also serves as a practical measure for political stability, addressing the issue of party hopping caused by insufficient allocations for serving the people.

“Additionally, we advocate for reforms within institutions like the Malaysian Anti-Coruption Commission (MACC), urging unbiased investigations into corruption suspicions without political biases.

"While our efforts began with Bersih, the Sama project offers a broader scope, allowing us to delve into cultural conflicts, the Race, Royalty and Religion (3Rs), and policy differentiations among competing parties,” he added.

He also noted that this expanded focus empowers them to address overarching societal issues and provide comprehensive solutions for the country's progress.