The Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, has urged an end to speculation and accusations following the appointment of Bersatu’s Abu Bakar Hamzah as menteri besar. He called for unity and a renewed focus on state development.
Abu Bakar was sworn in at Istana Arau today, replacing Shukri Ramli from PAS who resigned due to health reasons.
Stop Speculation for State’s Good
Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin expressed regret over the speculation and accusations that emerged. “I hope that all of this will be stopped for the good of the state,” he said.
He emphasised the desire for Perlis to move forward.
Challenging Decision on Leadership
Appointing a new menteri besar from elected representatives is never easy, as they are of similar calibre. Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin noted several have stood out since Perikatan Nasional took over state administration.
He views PN as a united political entity, not divided by component parties like PAS or Bersatu.
PN as One Under Single Flag
The ruler described PN as “one party under one flag”. He urged everyone to accept his decision, made after careful consideration for Perlis’ interests and development.
Most representatives expressed readiness to support whichever candidate he chose.
Call for Teamwork Without Divisions
Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin wants PN representatives to close ranks and work as a team. He stressed there should be no divisions between component parties.
Context of the Appointment
Abu Bakar’s appointment follows a political crisis in Perlis. Eight PN assemblymen reportedly submitted statutory declarations withdrawing support for Shukri.
Three PAS assemblymen – Saad Seman (Chuping), Fakhrul Anwar Ismail (Bintong), and Ridzuan Hashim (Guar Sanji) – had memberships terminated and seats declared vacant.
Bersatu Assemblymen Involved
The five Bersatu assemblymen who reportedly submitted statutory declarations include Abu Bakar (Kuala Perlis), Izizam Ibrahim (Titi Tinggi), Megat Hashirat Hassan (Pauh), Wan Zikri Afthar Ishak (Tambun Tulang), and Marzita Mansor (Sena).
PAS Leaders’ Cryptic Posts
Several PAS leaders posted cryptic messages on friendship and betrayal after the swearing-in. PAS treasurer Iskandar Abdul Samad said “we now know their true colours”, leaving interpretation to the public without naming anyone.
PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari stated a friend who backstabs another has chosen to become an enemy, while Nurul Islam Yusoff noted maintaining loyalty and friendship is difficult for Bersatu.
