Dr Mahathir Mohamad is said to be touching down today Sept 9 at the Subang airport and there are open invitations crowding the net for citizens to gather and welcome him from his overseas jetting.

Given the precarious and all too often puzzling political scenario here, the people and the organisations that they ally with may want to quickly take a relook at the big picture. The prevailing times offer no options if we agree that unity for the nation’s future is indispensable given the political tides under Najib Abdul Razak’s stewardship.

The only currency that will buy you a better political landscape to attempt re-building Malaysia that is now being torn apart with dangerous allegations, unprecedented scandals, puzzling developments and alienating of citizens along race and party lines, is thinking outside of political party agendas and priorities.

Citizens need the colossal power and presence of all political parties that believe that Malaysia’s stability, dignity and honour supersedes power and control opportunities.

Professional associations and civil society movements need to put aside their reservations and take on a catalytic role. Their presence will be the glue to bridge all those concerned and determined to remain patriotic to this country’s future.

As such, we must have the humility and wisdom to recognise this man, Dr Mahathir. He may be disliked for his past actions. You may have a trust issue. You may be bitter over his actions during his 22 years.

But the fact that outshines all reservations is he commands hope. Despite his age, he has demonstrated his passion and love for Malaysia. He has openly admitted his mistakes. He took that unexpected (to many) shift to be at the Bersih 4 gathering.

The need to convene, collaborate and champion a better Malaysia needs no party label or organisational colour. It comes from that space we call genuine intentions.

So will we see a huge crowd or will it be a case of handing over on a silver platter to Najib’s coterie’s full advantage, giving a walkover, is yet to be seen. Hope good sense and prudence prevails.