THE same idealistic crowd that spoke out strongly against Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad holding the education portfolio two years ago seems far quieter this time around.

Is it a sign of acceptance of Pakatan Harapan’s wisdom in decision-making? Or, does it show a public too tired to react to political goings-on? Judging by the general apathy and lack of comments following the last few exposes and revelations, it seems to be the latter.

Indeed, since the 2018 general election, we’ve seen non-stop political manoeuvring, the perceived inability of the ruling pact to solve issues that it had highlighted in its campaign, poor communication and dissemination of information to the public, and slow responses to the falsehoods fanned by the opposition.

The people need some good news, and fast.

Dr Mahathir becoming interim education minister can help with this. Much has been done to democratise education and ensure disadvantaged groups’ access to it, but unfortunately, the focus has often been on the messenger instead of the message.

In Dr Mahathir’s case, his personage allows him far greater latitude in making decisive moves, while his limited time left in politics means he can do “unpopular” things without having to worry about political repercussions. To put it in another way, he can do what no politician or technocrat can.

There needs to be a compromise by civil servants, government-linked companies and civil society. You cannot undo 60 years of damage or reverse policies implemented in that period quickly. Policies are “framed” on top of one other – to dismantle one would affect at least a few more, disturbing the “ecosystem”.

For example, to prosecute someone for a crime or decriminalise a certain activity involves enforcement officers, investigators, prosecutors, the courts and jailors. Changes to foreign policy, meanwhile, may require the relocation of diplomatic staff, relooking of tariffs, rebalancing of trade and so on.

Putting too much pressure to do too many things simultaneously will take away the government’s focus on major matters. The PH administration, already working with limited resources, is confronted with resistance from a sometimes reluctant civil service, a politically fatigued public, and an opposition that knows how to manipulate – and criticise – the very system that it helped corrupt.

From now till the next elections, ministers must choose their battles carefully.

In terms of what’s important, there is no topping the economy. We must go all out to stimulate trade and bring in foreign investments. Ministries need to be business-oriented and sell Malaysia strongly, from its education to expertise in various fields. In areas where we fall behind, offer tax breaks and talent.

To boost confidence in the government, national unity has to be embedded wherever possible. Our diversity of races and religions should be present in the civil service and economic activities. Politicians’ individual agendas must take a back seat, no two ways about it. If the government falls, its component parties fail as well.

Improving public delivery – faster trains, more immigration lanes at klia2, better internet service, cleaner and greener communities – will also help towards this end. Increased productivity leads to lower costs, and this will ease the people’s economic burden, something that all can cheer about.

As long as the focus remains on what’s important and the government stays united, PH can save its public image in time for the 15th general election. – January 15, 2020.

* Emmanuel Joseph firmly believes that Klang is the best place on Earth, and that motivated people can do far more good than any leader with motive.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.