Ismail Sabri’s golden opportunity to surprise – Terence Fernandez

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UNASSUMING, uninspiring and lacking in charisma. These were some of the words used to describe Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi when he took over the premiership from Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 2003.

However, when Abdullah was finally given his chance in the spotlight, he stepped up and surprised everyone.

Dr Mahathir was a tough act to follow but Abdullah, in his own unassuming way, inspired hope, starting with his “saya kuli nombor satu” of the people pledge.

He put in place reforms in a lethargic and bureaucratic civil service including bringing in corporate leaders to improve the delivery service; he promoted national schools to enhance unity among the races; promoting Islam Hadari – a progressive brand of Islam that prioritises knowledgeseeking and moderation; allowing space for debate by loosening controls on the media and freedom of expression; defied political pressure to interfere in the sodomy case of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim where the latter was later found innocent and freed; established economic corridors and encouraged clean government by, among others, mooting the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

He stepped up to the plate and brought a breath of fresh air and the people resoundingly gave him their vote when Barisan Nasional (BN) won its most successful elections ever by over 90%  – winning 198 of 220 seats.


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