A first impression of Dr Sam that tantalises but short of convincing

On Sunday, Terengganu Menteri Besar Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, known to many as Dr Sam, made a first impression on the 200+ non-Muslim attendees at Kelab Shah Alam's Peace and Harmony themed High Tea. Samsuri, an aerospace engineer and PAS vice president, MP for Kemaman and PN chairman, was introduced by a PAS aide as a scientist, setting the tone for his first public speaking engagement.

The event, organized by PAS's Ulama Council, aimed to expose Samsuri to non-Muslims for an early appraisal. Addressing the audience in both Bahasa Melayu and English, Samsuri spoke about the importance of multiculturalism and diversity in Malaysia, stating that the people have come to realize it is their only home and that they belong to it.

He cited Sarawak as an example of harmonious coexistence among different ethnicities and stressed that religious leaders have a duty to be bridgebuilders. Samsuri's message was clear: PAS would not engage in othering Malaysians and would help bridge divides among the Malaysian people. Upon concluding his hour-long speech, Samsuri left the gathering without taking questions, likely due to his recent ascension to the PN chairman role and desire to avoid controversy.

First impressions suggest Samsuri as a steady, competent individual with a pleasing personality and a future that time will fully reveal.