MALAYSIA is entering a “golden era” and her people have given hope to people struggling for freedom around the world, said Anwar Ibrahim, on the eve of his release from jail.

But amidst the euphoria of ousting the Najib regime, he has a word of caution for Malaysians: “One election does not a democracy make.”

The twice-jailed opposition leader has spent eight of the last 20 years in prison on sodomy charges he maintains were politically-motivated.

All this while, Anwar never lost hope. He was in hospital recovering from surgery when Dr Mahathir Mohamad led Pakatan Harapan to a historic victory over Barisan Nasional on May 9.

“I always believed in the wisdom of the people and that if we fought hard enough we would eventually prevail,” he told Fairfax Media.

Had there been free and fair elections, victory would have been achieved 10 years ago, he said.

“At a time when democracy is in retreat around the world, I hope the people of Malaysia have given some hope to people around the world clamouring for their own freedom.

Anwar is confidence he will be able to work with Dr Mahathir – his ally turned foe turned ally once more– noting that the prime minister cares deeply about Malaysia and the people.

He said a new partnership was essential to rid the country of a deeply entrenched, corrupt system.

“The road ahead will challenge the best among us to deliver what we promised to the people.”

Work was commencing immediately to restore “respect” for all Malaysians, independence of the judiciary, rule of law, free media and a proper separation of powers, he said.

Anwar was due to be released on June 8, but the King has offered offered him a royal pardon, clearing the way to not just an early release but to his reentry into politics. – May 15, 2018.