Perpaduan Melayu tak bermakna jika tadbir urus gagal, kata penganalisis

Analysts caution that the Malay unity slogan holds no value if the management of affairs fails, according to a recent interview with the FMT. Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri of Global Asia Consulting asserts that the welfare of Malays cannot solely be ensured through political dominance. He emphasizes that political control does not bring much meaning without proper management, thorough research, and accountability.

The analyst points out that the three institutions TH, LTAT, and 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) have been entrusted to Malay individuals for management, but each has been weak due to poor decisions and accumulated failures over the years.

In the case of TH, the Urusharta Jamaah Bhd (UJSB) seized its underperforming assets valued at RM9.7 billion at RM19.9 billion, effectively returning RM10.2 billion to TH. The government also allocated RM17.8 billion to cover the expected shortfall in UJSB bonds, shifting part of the financial burden from TH to tax payers.

LTAT's troubles are further compounded by Boustead Holdings Bhd, its primary investment arm, which poses a risk to the military members' funds. Meanwhile, in 1MDB, the government has paid RM42.5 billion for principal and interest, while another RM8.9 billion remains unresolved. Zaharuddin argues that the failure is not confined to these institutions; the cost ultimately falls on the public.

According to Zaharuddin, money used to bail out public funds or repay debts due to management failures could otherwise be allocated to healthcare, education, and food security. He stresses that managing public affairs is not just about financial management; it directly impacts the lives of people. As the election approaches, he suggests that the scale of leadership should be based on how well public institutions are managed professionally, with issues addressed before they become larger ones, and those responsible held accountable.