TLO vox pop: Pakatan failed us, Dr M was right to quit
PUCHONG: After the dust had almost settled following the ouster of Pakatan Harapan by Perikatan Nasional to claim the federal government, many have given their thoughts on what caused the political upheaval.
While many have criticised Perikatan Nasional for forming a ‘backdoor government’, some are less critical of the new government.
When The Leaders Online team spoke to the public, many of them share negative reviews over Pakatan’s leadership over the last 21 months.
“I was not satisfied with Pakatan. They disappointed me by not fulfilling their promises made in the last general election,” said a Chinese Malaysian male, who claimed anonymity.
Sharing the same sentiments, an Indian Malaysian who only wanted to be known as Sree, said that Pakatan had betrayed his trust.
“I trusted Pakatan and voted for them. When they won, I felt it was a Merdeka day for me.
“But now, I can only say I feel betrayed,” said the real-estate promoter.
When asked about Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s abrupt resignation as prime minister, many of those interviewed welcomed it.
“While I respect Mahathir, I think he is too old. He may have public interest at heart but Mahathir can’t solve the issues affecting the nation,” said a Foodpanda rider.
Sree, however, was less courteous when it came to Mahathir’s abrupt departure which led to Pakatan’s collapse.
“I think Tun Mahathir made himself look like an idiot. He gave a thousand reasons behind his resignation which we could not agree. Such a knowledgeable person should not do this to the public,” he said.
On what the public expect from the Perikatan Nasional government, helmed by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, many of those interviewed said they would adopt the ‘wait and see’ approach.
“It’s too early to judge them. I can only hope they will change the way the country is governed.
“The new government should know that promises are important. They should not be racist and treat everyone equally,” said another Chinese Malaysian, who claimed anonymity.
The Foodpanda rider shared the same sentiments saying, “We cannot say anything about the new government yet. Let’s wait for a few months.”
But many of them hoped that Perikatan would revive the Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M) scheme, reduce cost of living and slash fuel prices.
One interviewee, from Sabah, claimed that Muhyiddin is a respected figure in his state and believed the Pagoh MP would bring changes to the country.
However, Sree reminded the public of Muhyiddin’s not-so nationalistic comment made several years ago.
“Muhyiddin had said before that he is a Malay first, then a Malaysian,” he said.
By S Jeevita and M Rishi Ghanesh
