Support for both candidates

SOON after Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad decided not to hold the Education Minister portfolio and named Simpang Renggam MP Dr Maszlee Malik to take his place, Malaysians wasted no time and registered two petitions on change.org in support of both candidates for the role.

The first petition was registered on May 18 shortly after Dr Mahathir’s announcement, backing the premier to take up the ministerial role.

As of press time, it has garnered 88,916 signatures.

The second petition, in support of Dr Maszlee, was registered on May 19 and has accumulated 166,501 signatures.

Dr Mahathir’s supporters described him as a great role model and the best choice for the role, in the petition’s comment box.

A netizen stated that the nonagenarian has perhaps identified the problems prevalent in the education system and has thought of solutions, thus the decision to name himself.

Separately, on Dr Maszlee’s petition, supporters said the nation needs bright people to work with Dr Mahathir for the betterment of the country.

Some said to give Dr Maszlee a chance while others said he is a qualified candidate for the role.