Politik dan kepakaran perlu bergerak seiring, kata pemimpin muda

Two young Malaysian politicians, Noor Amelia Zainabila Zaiffri and Shamellya Norazizi, have emphasized the importance of combining technological expertise with political considerations for the betterment of the nation. Speaking on a recent episode of the Kena Soal radio show, the two politicians argued that technological experts should be utilized to strengthen the foundation for the people, but this should be balanced with political considerations and a realistic understanding of the current situation on the ground.

Noor Amelia, who has experience in both politics and the corporate sector, pointed out that more technocrats should be involved in government management, including at the Cabinet level. She cited the appointment of Amir Hamzah Azizan as the Deputy Finance Minister as an example. Prior to joining the Cabinet, Amir Hamzah served as the executive officer of the Employees Provident Fund (KWSP) and had 27 years of corporate sector experience.

"Let's utilize all talents, whether from the political or technological perspective, to continue the good agenda for the people," Noor Amelia said in the Kena Soal episode. She explained that political experts understand the people on the ground and public sentiment, while technocrats are more professional, structured, and data-driven.

Noor Amelia highlighted her political experience before transitioning to the corporate sector, which gave her insight into the differences in skills brought by political and technological experts in public administration. The 12th episode of Kena Soal is part of the Future Speaks initiative in collaboration with FMT. Shamellya Norazizi, a member of Puteri Umno, added that while politicians determine the direction of politics, technocrats can ensure the technical foundation is sound.

However, she also stressed that technocrats entering politics or government must understand that politics has its own art, including communication skills, working within party structures, understanding public expectations, and adapting to the reality of politics. A technocrat who can adapt to politics can form a very strong combination, according to Noor Amelia and Shamellya.