True leadership comes from conviction, not money - Umno leader
Political leaders should lead by example, naturally attracting support based on their values rather than relying heavily on financial sponsorship.
PETALING JAYA – An Umno leader has dismissed the idea that political funding should shape political movements, emphasising that true leadership stems from conviction and commitment rather than financial backing.
“When a politician is controlled by their sponsors, it limits their genuine objectives,” said Umno Division Branch Chief and Committee Member, Mohd Shahril Aznam during the recent NextGen Public Forum on Multiparty Democracy vs. Populism: Building a Viable Alternative for Malaysian Youth, organised by the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih).
Shahril questioned whether financial sponsorship might hinder politicians from pursuing their own priorities.
“When someone funds me, will I truly be able to advocate for what I believe in?” he asked.
He argued that political leaders should lead by example, naturally attracting support based on their values rather than relying heavily on financial sponsorship.
“Political funds are just a topic of discussion; as a politician, you need to be clear about what you fight for,” he added.
Reflecting on his journey, Shahril shared his gratitude for the trust people have shown in his commitment to addressing their concerns.
“I’ve risen from the grassroots, working my way up. Alhamdulillah, people chose me because of how I handle the issues I champion,” he said.
He also acknowledged the impact of Undi18, a movement co-founded by Qyira Yusri that lowered the voting age from 21 to 18, providing all political parties with a chance to engage younger voters.
Meanwhile, Kepong Perikatan Nasional (PN) Liaison Body Chief Iskandar Khoo Kuan Yiaw voiced support for a political financing law to promote transparency and fairness, stressing that funds should be allocated equitably across all political affiliations.
“We need transparency. Campaigns require adequate funding to compete for voter support,” Iskandar said, slamming the current system's alleged bias, which he claimed favours the government over the Opposition.
He further clarified that a fair and transparent law would discourage politicians from pressuring individuals and businesses for contributions, which tends to benefit more charismatic politicians and create disadvantages for others.
“We need an equitable distribution of funds, free from unnecessary pressures on external sources,” he stated, emphasising that such a law should be implemented impartially by Dewan Rakyat.
In a related matter, Angkatan Muda Keadilan Malaysia's Health Bureau chief Dharshinee Suresh Kumar expressed a contrasting view.
She argued that politicians should thrive on their own merits without restrictions from funding regulations.
She stated that while some Malaysians are generous in their contributions, they may also expect a certain level of influence over how their donations are used, potentially limiting a politician’s capacity to fulfill their role fully.
