MP SPEAKS | The aftermath of the Sheraton Move – despite having occurred only recently in February – had left a devastating impact on the fabric of Malaysian politics and is still strongly felt despite our nation’s ongoing battle against Covid-19. Betrayal, treachery, power-grabbing, passing of positions and money just to name a few are now painting the landscape of Malaysian politics.

The first few months following Sheraton Move were tough on the people and it was equally difficult for myself. The day I decided to cross to the other side of the aisle that is not in favour of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) government, my parliamentarian allocation was frozen and pulled back.

I was also expelled by the party that I helped co-founded, my very first party in politics. The journey to be an honest politician in Malaysia is indeed challenging. I was heavily tempted with the opportunity of keeping my minister’s position and the perks that come with it.

It may not be the easiest route for myself and my constituency but if there’s one thing I have learnt during my stint as MP in Muar is that people value an honest politician, someone who is willing to stick to their principles and do their best by the people regardless of the challenges thrown at them.

Following the move, people’s mandate was taken away one state at a time and the looming threat of several accused politicians demanding charges against them to be dropped was also realised. People’s beliefs in politics are at an all-time low. This is truly sad because, in essence, the MPs are the...