AnySelected

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - In a sharp rebuke of the recent “Turun Anwar” rally, former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has called on supporters of Anwar Ibrahim and the opposition to shift their focus away from political demonstrations and towards addressing the pressing national issues facing Malaysia. Speaking candidly, Rafizi argued that Malaysians are yearning for tangible solutions and policy changes, not just theatrical displays of dissent.

The “Turun Anwar” rally, held on Saturday (July 26th), aimed to pressure the government and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. However, Rafizi believes such events are ultimately counterproductive. “While peaceful assembly is a fundamental right, constantly staging rallies without a clear, actionable agenda risks alienating the public and diverting attention from the crucial work needed to improve the country's economy and social well-being,” he stated in a recent interview.

Rafizi’s criticism comes at a time when Malaysia is grappling with a range of challenges, including rising inflation, cost of living pressures, and concerns about the long-term sustainability of the economy. He emphasised that the opposition's energy would be better spent developing concrete proposals and holding the government accountable through constructive dialogue and policy analysis.

“The people want to see results. They want to see policies that address their daily struggles, create jobs, and ensure a brighter future for their children,” Rafizi explained. “Simply chanting slogans and demanding resignations is not enough. We need to offer alternatives and demonstrate a genuine commitment to improving the lives of all Malaysians.”

He further suggested that instead of rallies, opposition leaders should engage in more targeted campaigns focused on specific issues, such as healthcare, education, and affordable housing. “These campaigns should involve direct engagement with communities, gathering feedback, and formulating evidence-based solutions,” he added.

Rafizi’s remarks highlight a growing debate within the opposition regarding the most effective strategies for challenging the government. While rallies can generate publicity and galvanize support, critics argue that they often fail to translate into meaningful policy changes and can even damage the opposition’s credibility.

The former minister’s call for a shift in focus underscores the need for a more nuanced and strategic approach to political activism in Malaysia, one that prioritizes substance over spectacle and prioritizes the needs of the people above political posturing. The onus is now on the opposition to demonstrate that they are truly committed to serving the best interests of the nation, not just scoring political points.