PKR needs new generation of leaders beyond Anwar, says Zaliha

Dr Zaliha Mustafa, vice-president of the People’s Justice Party (PKR), has called for the party to begin nurturing a new generation of leaders to continue the reform agenda beyond Anwar Ibrahim. The party's leadership should not wait for Anwar to step down before identifying successors, she stressed. Instead, the process of identifying and developing capable leaders must start now.

Zaliha urged PKR to look for individuals who understand the reformasi struggle, are clean, competent, and courageous. These leaders should possess a deep understanding of the economy and people's concerns, and be ready to lead Malaysia. She emphasized that this new generation of leaders should embody the principles championed by the party, including the proposed limit on the prime minister's tenure to 10 years.

To achieve this, Zaliha stressed the importance of cadre-building – the process of preparing members to become leaders. This should not be a recent endeavor, but should have begun 20 years ago. However, she acknowledged that starting late is better than never. PKR should identify, train, and provide opportunities for leadership development to members at all levels, from ordinary members to professionals and community activists.