Muhyiddin commended for resilience amid Bersatu ‘defections’

PETALING JAYA: Perikatan Nasional chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has been commended on his resilience in facing the wave of Bersatu MPs suddenly declaring support for the unity government.

The coalition’s Federal Territories information chief, Mahathir Mohd Rais, said Muhyiddin and Perikatan had remained steadfast despite significant challenges and vowed to continue championing the people’s interests.

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“The resilience of Muhyiddin shines through amid the unpredictable tides of politics.

“The shifting loyalties of (the) MPs are a reminder of a well-known political narrative: only the sturdiest ships can weather the changing winds.

“A political party’s strength is its ability to withstand storms, not merely its visible size. Political reality teaches us that no party is immune to power struggles (it’s) a global phenomenon.

“Outstanding leadership throughout history – Churchill’s defiance, Roosevelt’s savvy during unparalleled economic turmoil, and Lee Kuan Yew’s resolve to transform a nation – all illustrate that leadership’s test is not in victory but in perseverance through trials.

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“Muhyiddin walks this path, standing firm despite potential increases in defections, demonstrating that leadership is truly tested in times of crisis,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (Nov 8).

Mahathir said the current situation did not indicate that Perikatan is reaching the end of the road but was merely “setting the stage for our political history’s next act”.

He urged Perikatan members to remain steadfast by adhering to the coalition’s principles and values, adding that the pact will forge ahead and emerge stronger.

“We may face upheaval, but history tells us that such times often lead to the rise of a renewed, robust force. Despite betrayals, Bersatu remains focused on the long term.

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“Each act of betrayal is not just a loss but a chance to reinforce our ranks, reaffirm loyalty and rejuvenate our commitment to the cause.

“Regardless of the number of defectors or the strength of the political upheaval, our party’s leader is unwavering, navigating us toward goals that transcend power and are deeply embedded in the people’s aspirations where every challenge brings wisdom and lessons,” he said.

As of Wednesday afternoon, four Bersatu MPs have declared support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

They are Datuk Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid (Kuala Kangsar), Datuk Dr Suhaili Abdul Rahman (Labuan), Mohd Aziz Abu Naim (Gua Musang) and Zahari Kechik (Jeli).