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Ideals meet harsh truths in politics, Nazir told
Published:  Jun 17, 2015 1:00 PM
Updated: 6:41 AM

As both the ruling and opposition coalitions struggle with their respective crisis, news has surfaced that Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak’s brother Nazir will set up a new political entity.

However, an Umno leader, though welcoming the move, warned it is not an easy task to manage a political outfit.

"At this time it is purely speculative. But if it is true, I wish them the best of luck. Any Malaysian can set up a political party," tweeted Abdul Rahman Dahlan.

"But sometimes running an NGO or a business organisation is so much easier than running a political party," he said.

The housing and local government minister pointed out when a person speaks from a political platform, his or her words and policies would be subjected to intense public scrutiny.

"You will quickly realise that lofty ideals, while good to hear, will have to be tampered with harsh and uncompromising realities on the ground.

"Running a  political party requires mental and physical stamina, the ability to connect and understand the diverse demands of the rakyat," he said.

On a personal note, Abdul Rahman said he welcomed more political parties offering themselves to the public.

"The more the merrier. In the end, the people will decide," he added.

The Asia Sentinel reported that Nazir, who heads CIMB bank, has initiated the formation of a new non-partisan political party to reach out to all races.

He is reported to have approached former deputy education minister Saifuddin Abdullah, one of Umno's few liberal-minded leaders, to lead the new party.


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