WHAT is it like to be a politician? Is it truly about the money and the fame or is there something more sinister than that? It is said that a good number of politicians is sometimes caught in corruption. However, not all politicians are the same. We are individuals with feelings, passion and a plan. Just like everyone else, we are doing our jobs as best as we can. What is different about our work our love for helping the people of our nation. Venturing into politics requires mental, emotional and physical strength. 

I have written many articles, in an effort to bring to light issues that have been raised by the B40 community. I realised that the responses I get from my articles are often biased. They are from the point of view of an extremely woke generation, who more often than not live in urban areas. Their arguments usually stem from how extreme my views are when these are merely feedback I have received from people who come from different backgrounds. 

Politicians are the voice of the people. Though my views may be different, they are my opinions nonetheless. Some people may not be in favour of them. This is about ensuring that all voices are heard equally. Those in urban areas are able to communicate their concerns via social media, but what about people in rural areas? Are they able to share their daily struggles?  

I’ve also realised that most social media users who post comments look down on the abilities of the people living in rural areas. Their perception is that most Perikatan Nasional (PN) supporters are not capable of speaking English. Even if that is the case, what is wrong with conveying the message of those who are less fortunate in a different language?

Another would be that most PN supporters come from the rural areas, which is not true. I think most people have purposely forgotten that PN gave a good fight even in urban areas as well during the general election. Therefore, our supporters are well-spoken, both in English and Malay regardless of where they live. 

To ensure harmony in our country, supporters across the divide must recognise that everyone goes through hardship. Just because one cannot relate to the suffering of the other, it does not mean that it does not exist. As a politician, my beliefs are that I want to ensure equality and equity for all. It is only then that can Malaysia develop positively. – January 18, 2023.

* Mahathir Mohd Rais is Federal Territories Perikatan Nasional information chief

* 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.