Syed Saddiq hints at starting youth-centred movement

TANJUNG MALIM: Former Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) Armada Chief Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman (pic) has hinted that he may start a youth-centred movement when the time comes.

The Muar MP said his main focus would be on issues related to youth.

“I will continue to support and respect Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as I believe that his heart is in the right place. He could easily be Perikatan Nasional’s prime minister but chose not to, as it was against what he fought for.

“I still respect Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as he was the one who brought me into politics, ” he told reporters at a restaurant in Trolak near here on Friday (Aug 21).

“However, I believe the time has come where young leaders should be given a chance.

"Those who were fired or left Bersatu, some of whom are even better than me, deserve a chance.

“I will make an announcement when the time comes, ” he added.

It was reported by Malaysiakini on Aug 9 that Syed Saddiq’s absence during Dr Mahathir’s press conference to announce Parti Pejuang Tanahair (Pejuang) raised questions as to whether he planned to set up a new youth-based political party for the 15th General Election.

Syed Saddiq said his decision to join politics was not because of money or title but he wanted to focus on youth issues.

“I want youth issues to be a national concern.

“For now, my job is to listen to what the youth in this country needs, and if there is a need to form a movement, it will not only just be me, ” he said.

“There will be a group of young technocrats, politicians, esteemed members of the public and award-winners, ” he said, adding that he would continue to support the Opposition bloc.

“For now I am still an Independent but pledge my support for Pejuang and its candidate, Amir Khusyairi Mohd Tanusi.

“As a youth himself, Amir Khusyairi is a young lawyer with integrity and sincerity to serve the people, and I am happy to campaign for him in the Slim by-election, ” he added.

The Slim by-election will see a three cornered fight between Barisan Nasional candidate, Mohd Zaidi Aziz, and two Independent candidates – Amir Khusyairi and Dr. S. Santharasekaran.

Polling day will be on Aug 29