Retire gracefully, veteran politicians advised

FORMER deputy MCA president Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek has an advice for retired politicians – leave the running of the country to the serving leaders.

“Can you imagine the large number of ex-US presidents issuing daily press statements or blogging away in social media to attack the serving president?

“I don’t hear or read anything of that sort.

“Even when they write their memoir or when they give lectures, they are courteous and civil.

“Perhaps we should learn from them,” he says.

The veteran politician, who shares that he now enjoys his time with his family, grandchildren and friends, believes that retired politicians should build bridges and be the force of unity with their vast experience and network of contacts.

“If we are unhappy with anyone, even the PM, I am sure we have access to him. Let’s remember that Najib is elected – at party and government levels – so we should leave it at that.

“There is no reason to be personal too, especially by launching attacks on spouses and children.

“Let’s draw the lines. We do not have to name names here, but I am sure the critics have their fair share of skeletons and controversies which we do not wish to dig up because it will never end.

“Let’s not show off by trying to show how clever or smart we are.

“We have had our time. Let’s move on and be graceful party elders or statesmen. We are no longer active, so let’s leave it to the active politicians,” he stresses.

Asked if the statement was directed at Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, Lim only says that he is sure Malaysians have understood what he had said.

“My advice to Dr Ling is to focus on Utar (Universiti Tun Abdul Rahman) of which he is chairman.

“He is doing a tremendous job. The university needs a hospital for its medical faculty and I hope he will concentrate on making this a reality.”

He concedes that Dr Ling had his share of successes and failures as MCA president, but declines to dwell on the black spots.

“We must be magnanimous and positive. Stop throwing stones at people if you too live in glass houses.”

Lim says he is also worried that Dr Mahathir, whom he had served with in the Cabinet, will have his legacy threatened.

“I have the highest respect for this man.

“Malaysians have high regards for him, but he must also know how to restrain himself.

“He has done his part, made his point and must now just leave it to the active players.”

Lim reiterates that it is not his intention to get involved in any controversies as he just wanted to talk about the 40 years of Najib in politics and as a Pahang politician.

“I hope you quote me accurately. I am a retired politician who does not need any controversy or any form of spotlight,” he notes.