Selection of PRS candidates based on their performance, merits – Masing

SERIAN: Candidates representing PRS in the state or general elections will be selected based on their performance and merits.

Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Masing said the selection of candidates can never be based on personal feelings, as politicians are in for the long run to serve the party and the people.

"The interest of the party and its vision is very important. As long as the intention and support is there, it will ensure the longevity of the party," said Masing during the PRS Balai Ringin appreciation dinner at SJK Chung Hua Serian on Saturday.

"I will not be here forever, one day someone else will fill up my shoes," said the PRS president.

According to him further, politics is a long term affair similar to running a marathon.

Speaking of his 34 years in politics, Masing said he was appointed as assistant minister in 1994 and has now climbed the ranks to be deputy chief minister today.

He added that those not selected as candidates should not be disgruntled and go against the party.

Also speaking was Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports Snowdan Lawan, who is a third-term Balai Ringin state assemblyman.

"Despite being ADUN (elected representative) for the 11th year, I still feel green and there are still a lot more to be learnt," said Snowdan, while conveying his gratitude to Masing and all PRS members especially in Balai Ringin for their support and confidence in him.

He added that in politics, it takes time to learn and one should take one step at a time.

"It is not about how many times you fall down but how many times you can rise up. That is very important," said Snowdan.

He stressed that the interest of the party should always be a priority alongside the interest and welfare of the community.

On another note, Snowdan said he would do his best to push the party to greater heights and get the members to put their trust on their leader (Masing).

"We must trust our leader as he (Masing) knows best as he is the captain of the party, whatever it is, all of us must trust our president," he added.