State councillor Saminathan has the drive to succeed
MELAKA: Detractors say he is unfit to be a state executive councillor, but former lorry driver G. Saminathan is unfazed and wants to prove them wrong.
“Lorry drivers can be intelligent and successful too,” said the newlyminted Melaka Unity, Human Resources, NonGovernmental Organisations and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman.
The Melaka DAP vicechairman, responding to rivals who have called into question his qualifications to hold the exco position, said: “As a matter of fact, I am an entrepreneur but my rivals seem to pick on me being a driver.
“I don’t mind them branding me a driver as time will tell if I will perform better than a professional in serving the people.”
His company owns two lorries.
“I could even be as successful as Rajinikanth, a former bus conductor,” he added, referring to the Tamil film icon.
Saminathan said he climbed the political ladder as an opposition leader through determination and a commitment to serve the party, which he joined in 2011, and the people.
“I owe my success to Melaka DAP chairman Tey Kok Kiew who guided me step by step on managing political matters.
“I also read The Star and Sinar Harian to improve my grasp of English and Bahasa Malaysia,” said the 32yearold.
Saminathan said he would draw on his experience and knowledge serving various NGOs, including youth organisations, in his new job.
“I have also attended seminars on human rights,” he said.
He said he would not have been appointed as an exco member by Chief Minister Adly Zahari if he did not possess the relevant experience or knowhow to manage the portfolio.
“Furthermore, I am surrounded by experienced and goodhearted people who are giving me encouragement and guidance.
“I am sure I can do well by staying humble and being receptive to ideas from directors of the various departments under my purview,” he said.
“There’s nothing to stop a bluecollar worker from succeeding if he works hard.”
He urged his critics to make use of their resources to help the people rather than condemning others.
On a personal note, Saminathan believes his firstborn has brought him good fortune.
“I was nominated as a candidate soon after her birth last month and won the Gadek state seat, a Barisan stronghold, though with a razorthin majority of 350 votes,” he said.