Time to march in unison and purpose

IT was a general election unlike any Malaysia had ever gone through. The outcome is similarly new to us all. But now that GE14 is over and what the majority wants has been made clear, the nation must march on in unison and with great purpose.

There is a lot to be done, and the quicker we dispense with post-election jostling and adjustments, the sooner we can resume the business of nation-building.

We must recognise the general election for what it is – an expres- sion of the rakyat’s dreams and desires. And so, the people have spoken on May 9 and there is little room for confusion over the meaning of the results. The sentiments are broad and cut across racial and religious lines.

For those who are disappointed with the GE14 results, the right response is to put aside personal losses and gracefully accept the people’s will. By now, the winners and their supporters ought to see that the real work starts now and it requires the efforts and the hearts and minds of all Malaysians.

The GE14 campaign and the political battles that preceded it were often bruising and divisive. This is why it is important that healing and reconciliation be the next steps.

Those who were voted in must look beyond their constituencies and party interests. They must resist the temptation to settle old scores and consolidate political power. Instead, they need to focus on national priorities and enlist the help of all Malaysians.

Of course, this is easier said than done, but these goals will be within reach if we appreciate the fact that the country is the biggest winner in GE14.

Each of us is better off because the events of May 9 have proven that our voice counts and democracy in Malaysia is alive

By the end of the week, the new federal and state governments will be formed.

It is typically part of post-election euphoria to fulfil the low-hanging fruits among campaign pledges. May this happen with wisdom and foresight and not just populism.

We Malaysians too have to be ready for the hard work ahead. During the general election, we concentrated on supporting parties and personalities.

Now it is about working with the state and federal governments and ensuring that they do their jobs well. That calls for vigilance and knowledge.

We exercise the power of the vote once every five years, but there is nothing to stop us from wielding daily our rights as citizens.