IT is disappointing that after all the political dramas that were witnessed by Malaysians leading to the resignation of Muhyiddin Yassin, who has been accused of forming an incompetent government, the new prime minister, Ismail Sabri Yaakob, has chosen to serve the people with the same cabinet personalities of the previous regime. A recycling strategy with little value domestically and internationally.

It is only Khairy Jamaluddin, who has been appointed health minister, that shines in this cabinet while the others are mere shadows, failing to reach their full potential in their previous ministries.

Malaysia today is in dire need of brains that are not limited to politics but the ability to formulate policies that serve the common good.

That would require leaders who are proactive, having their ears solidly to the ground of grievances and difficulties of people, and honest enough to reject any political manoeuvres that are dishonest even if they come from their own political party.

A good minister will have the humility to accept criticisms in Parliament, acknowledge ideas that have value, even from political opponents, and will always be prepared as well as knowledgeable of a given subject matter.

The nature of constructive politics is reflected in a cabinet line-up of honest personalities.

Unfortunately, what we see is a cabinet of betrayers, plotters, party-hoppers, the ethno-religious, and vividly dishonest politicians who have been the source of the negative and destructive politics, the nation has seen in the past two years.

It is hoped the next general election will see more younger people in Parliament, who are able to contribute towards a healthy and constructive nexus between politics and cabinet formation.

The lesson that can be learnt from the latest cabinet line-up is that elite political calculation has taken precedence over performance. A reality of current Malaysia.

Yet, it is hope that the ministers will work for change and bring about a culture of integrity in their respective ministries. – August 28, 2021.

* Ronald Benjamin is secretary of Association for Community and Dialogue.

* 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.