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

Dr Sam, known as Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, made a notable impression on the 200 attendees at Kelab Shah Alam last Sunday. The aerospace engineer, Terengganu Menteri Besar, PAS Vice President, MP for Kemaman, and PN Chairman, is rapidly rising in political circles. Samsuri, 79, has been with PAS since 2002 as the president and is now the center of attention at a High Tea event organized by the Ulama Council of PAS, themed "Peace and Harmony."

The function aimed to introduce Samsuri to non-Muslim representatives early on in his political journey. PAS aide described him as "a scientist," hinting at his rational approach and potential to counter religious extremism. Speaking in a mix of Bahasa Melayu and English, Samsuri spoke for an hour about the importance of multiculturalism and diversity in Malaysia, suggesting that his PN would not engage in othering.

He cited Sarawak as an example of ethnicities living in harmony and emphasized the duty of religious leaders to be bridgebuilders.

Samsuri's message was clear: PAS would not contribute to division among Malaysians. He expressed a desire to help in the bridgebuilding process, without any hint of recent divisive efforts. Leaving the gathering immediately after his speech, Samsuri demonstrated a steady emotional demeanor and a pleasing personality, a promising start for a man in his early days as PN chairman.