MAHIADDIN Yassin (Abah), thank you for taking immediate action on the Prasarana chairman. You have proven that you listen to the rakyat and not to bow to political demands.

Many hoped you could make a difference when you took over the previous administration. They were busy with internal issues leaving the backdoor ajar. The PM-in-waiting could not wait and there were infighting and instability.

Earlier, there were talks about Malay-based parties to unite under a single umbrella as a first step to Bangsa Malaysia.

Party leaders said Malay unity was vital for the country to achieve stability. To unite Bangsa Malaysia, Malays must unite first and the agenda of the ummah and Islam should be placed at the highest level. They were also aware political leaders have “super egos” and the need to compromise and Malay electorates won’t forgive them if they squander.

Then Allah granted their prayers and Perikatan Nasional (PN) was established in February last year. After more than a year, sadly, majority of Malaysians feels marginalised and unattended amplified by the pandemic. Even Umno confirmed in July that it would not join PN but would continue to lend its support for the coalition.

This is trouble.

PN is shaky, the government is growingly uncreative and at best feeble and unity is now questionable.

On ummah and Islam, the ummah’s standard of living is plunging and adherence to Islamic values is somewhat hazy.

Values such as akhlāq, adab (good breeding) and good character following the examples of Prophet Muhammad are now diminishing. Emergence of money politics – corruption – has increased the intensity of arrogance among politicians. On many occasions the rakyat’s views and plight have been misplaced and put on the back burner while politicians fight for cushy positions.

Sadly, many Islamic organisations are characterised by leadership lacking in vision and the requisite skills and practices nepotism and favouritism.

Prophet Muhammad said, “Whosoever delegates a position to someone whereas he sees someone else is more competent (for the position), verily he has cheated Allah and His Apostle and all the Muslims.”

Abah, you are very experienced politically and more knowledgeable on Islam.

Humans make mistakes but what determines one’s character is reflecting on the mistakes and motivates one to do better.

Abah, we do not have the power and authority to make things happen. You do. I am sure you are well aware of all the shortcomings of the administration. It is not too late to take corrective measures and actions. The rakyat have been praying for better living conditions and proper control of the pandemic. Dua’ and supplication of a father for his children is not rejected by Allah.

We pray that you be strong, more assertive and firmer in your decisions and not dance to the tune of your subordinates.

I am sure you can control their super egos. If they show unwillingness to give it up, what is the point of Malay unity and the agenda for the ummah and Islam. Or is it lip service or a separate agenda? If so, their role as the people’s rep is as hollow as some of the promises made during election time.

We and the future generations will be grateful to you and more importantly, it will uplift our dignity and self-respect in the eyes of the world guided by your love as an Abah.

We understand at times you also need the support of an ‘Emak’ that loves their children too.

What say you… – May 27, 2021.

* Saleh Mohammed reads The Malaysian Insight.

* 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.