9 May 2021 was the third anniversary of the People’s Power tsunami that swept Malaysia into a new dawn.
In an unprecedented move, Malaysians voted in a new government, effectively bringing Barisan Nasional’s rule
to a close. We are reminded of the years of struggles by the civil society organisations (CSO) to educate the
rakyat on our rights, our voices and the value of one vote.
‘Langkah Sheraton’ was also an unfortunate unprecedented move when Malaysia and the world, saw the
collapse of a democratically elected government, to be taken over by a government that was not voted by the
people, nor of the people. But the hope of aspiration for real change, after successive waves of political
connivance that enables grand corruption and massive human rights abuses that continues unabated, remains
alive. It is the courage and strength of the people to make that decision of the type of government to bring in.
Congratulations are still in order to the people of Malaysia for the world an example of a peaceful and
successful transition of government. It was the dawn of a new era of reforms agenda driven government, while
it has been slow but the train for change had certainly begun. There were negative political forces using race
and religion to bring down a legitimate government, and as a civilised society, we detest that.
There is a continuous disappointment of political manoeuvrings and party frogging that is revolting to the will
of the people. Democracy is the power of citizens to decide the future of the nation, and NOT politicians
deciding amongst politicians. This is a betrayal and must serve as a lesson that enough is enough. We need a
new policy and legal framework to safeguard the citizens’ democratic rights against the hunger of political
greed and ambitions.
Let’s get Malaysia back on her proud feet through reforms, good governance and human rights. We were once
a proud beacon globally but that was rudely stolen. It is time to reassert the will of the people through elections.
It is time to ensure all institutions are functioning including the parliament. It is time to respect the intellect of
the people by giving us progressive reforms and not recoil into the throes of racism and religious narrow
mindedness.
Malaysia cannot stomach this political situation anymore. We, the people, want a Malaysia that is carved out
to ensure there is a mutual respect and rightful place for all. The date 9th of May 2018 will always be a significant
and historic milestone in Malaysia’s history of democracy and to remind ourselves of the peoples’ power. May
justice, equity and democracy prevail over us in years to come.