ISDEV LECTURE SERIES VII IN THE NEWS - 4

By:Bernama
Date:October 21, 2008 18:52 PM

Pick Capable Leaders, Says Muhyiddin

PENANG, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- Umno vice-president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today said that in the coming march party polls he wants the concept of meritocracy to be practised by electing capable leaders and rejecting those who indulge in money politics.

He said only genuine leaders would be on the frontlines of the party's agenda, especially in facing Umno's "enemies", and who would not "hide" behind party members.

"We have to develop in our country's politics a system of meritocracy. We should not elect a leader just because we know him and he has money but we must choose based on ability, credibility and experience," he said.

Muhyiddin said this to reporters after delivering a lecture titled 'Malay-Islamic Politics: Crisis and Solution' organised by the Centre for Islamic Development Management Studies (ISDEV) and the Nurul Yaqeen Foundation at Dewan Budaya, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) here today.

Muhyiddin, who is also International Trade and Industry Minister, said that the matter was important in view of the fact that Umno as a political party had rejected money politics.

"This is a serious matter and has to be handled as soon as possible, the party has long rejected such practice and the people too cannot accept it," he said.

Muhyiddin voiced concern on the possibility of such culture during the party's divisional meetings that were being held throughout the country now.

"A high level of commitment is needed by all quarters, including from leaders who are contesting, and delegates who nominate.

"If this practice is not stopped, I worry that it can adversely affect Umno's image as the largest political party in Malaysia. It can also destroy Umno," he said.

Meanwhile, Muhyiddin expressed happiness and thanks for the nominations he received so far as a party deputy president candidate.

He said the support he received from the grassroots would spur him to serve and devote himself to the party.

"Thank God for the nominations I have received so far. This is just a start, the meetings have a long way to go. I hope those at the grassroots will continue to support me and that the support will remain for a long time," he said.