Newly-minted Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar has dismissed suggestions that his leadership is aimed at reshaping perceptions of the so-called “green wave.”
Responding to a question on whether he is seen as a ‘technocratic face’ who could soften the coalition’s image, Samsuri said the focus should not be on labels.
“For me, it is not about waves. What we want to bring is positive change into society.
“What is most important is that we carry a clear message, which is to make Malaysia a better country,” he said.
Samsuri was speaking to reporters after breaking fast with members of the Terengganu diaspora in a programme held by the state government here today.
Also in attendance was Terengganu state legislative assembly speaker Datuk Mohd Nor Hamzah.
Samsuri, who is also Terengganu Menteri Besar, highlighted that external narratives should not define PN’s direction, reiterating that the coalition’s priority is unity ahead of elections.
“For me, what is most important at this time is that we strengthen the Perikatan Nasional organisation.
“In particular, to reinforce unity nationwide, including Sabah and Sarawak, and we are prepared to face the election. That is the priority at this time,” he said.
Meanwhile, the breaking of fast programme was joined by more than 3,000 attendees.
“This is an annual event that we organise and it provides an opportunity for the state government administration to strengthen ties between the leadership and the people of Terengganu who are outside Terengganu,” Samsuri said.
On Feb 22, Samsuri, who is also a Pas vice-president, was named the new chairman of PN.
The 56-year-old Ru Rendang assemblyman, long seen as a comparatively-moderate technocrat, has served as Terengganu Menteri Besar since 2018 and was sworn in for a second term in 2023 after PN secured a clean sweep of all 32 seats in the state legislative assembly in the state elections.
The PN chairmanship fell vacant following Muhyiddin’s resignation on Jan 1. He stepped down after Pas leaders reportedly called on him to relinquish the post amid tensions between Bersatu and Pas over the Perlis leadership crisis.-NST
