The persistence and determination of Mohd Ali Rustam who has been Malacca chief minister for 14 years is best described in the book titled ‘ Aura & Umph Ali Rustam ’.

The 103-page book tells about Mohd Ali’s life and progress made by Malacca under his administration such as Melaka Maju 2010, declaration of Malacca City as a World Heritage Site by Unesco and listing of Melaka as the world’s 28th must visit destination.

‘ Aura & Umph Ali Rustam ’ was written by former journalists Jamelah A Bakar, Ahmad Falahdini Baharuddin and Daud Awang.

Jamelah, who is also the publisher, said the book aims to show Mohd Ali as a people-oriented leader who should be emulated by future leaders or current leaders.

“He is a leader with the people at heart. Sometimes, he would interrupt a meal just to entertain people who asked for his signature. This is unlike some leaders who don’t even look at your face.”

Jamelah said ‘ Aura & Umph Ali Rustam ’ also explained why many people  received their datukship from the Malacca state government.

“He (Mohd Ali) does not care what people say because what is important is that the selected candidates meet the criteria. This is why Malacca is known as the state that gives datukship and other titles to outsiders.”

The book also revealed why the wedding reception of the chief minister’s son made the Malaysia Book of Records for receiving 130,000 guests.

Cheras Umno division chief Syed Ali Al-Habshee was quoted in the book as saying: “A people-friendly leader like Mohd Ali will be rewarded with kindness.

“It is no surprise that the wedding reception was attended by 130,000 guests. This proves that Mohd Ali is much loved by the people of Malacca.

Jamelah said intitally, 10,000 copies of the book were printed, adding another 15,000 copies are being printed.

The book launched on Feb 26 is available at selected bookstores at RM15 per copy for peninsular Malaysia and RM15 for Sabah and Sarawak.

- Bernama