Excessive politicking could derail hopes for reform in new Malaysia

Aliran members, gathered for the society’s 43rd annual general meeting this morning, expressed concern that excessive politicking could derail hopes for reforms in the new Malaysia.

Members hoped that civil society would continue speaking truth to power without getting pessimistic. It was important to be optimistic and not lose hope, they felt.

In her reflections read out at the annual general meeting, outgoing president Dr Prema Devaraj urged members to promote a “more inclusive narrative to counter the race-religion narrative”, which often distracts us from the real issues at hand.

“As we move forward, we must be mindful of the understanding which needs to be created, of the bridges which need to be built and of the solidarity that must be extended to all who believe in a new Malaysia.”

Prominent blogger Anil Netto was elected president, replacing Prema, who declined renomination as president after serving three terms. Members expressed their appreciation for her selfless and tireless service in broadening Aliran’s reach to the public.

Also elected were Dr Azmil Tayeb as honorary secretary, Dr Prema Devaraj as honorary assistant secretary and Henry Loh as honorary treasurer.

Re-elected to the executive committee were Dr Francis Loh, Dr Mustafa K Anuar, Andrew Wong, Prof Zaharom Nain, Dr Lye Tuck-Po and K Haridas.

All five new faces elected to the 11-member committee were from the younger generation: Dr Khoo Ying Hooi, Noor Asmaliza Romlee, Norhidayah Nadila Maulad Daud, Dineskumar Ragu and Ryan Brendon Joseph, who is currently Aliran’s youngest member.

Women comprise 33% of the new committee.

Ng Tien Eng was elected the honorary auditor.

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama

1. Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
2. Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
3. Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
4. Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
5. Lawan rasuah dan kronisme

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