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By Mihar Dias(C) Copyright January 2024
In 1987, a young Zahid Hamidi, appointed a year earlier as the Political Secretary to Najib, chauffeured my family and me from Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson.
He exuded cheerfulness, friendliness, and politeness, reflecting his dedication to his role as a political secretary to the Minister of Youth and Sports.
Although the details of the event are somewhat blurred, I recall a training session where Zahid, along with his influential youth leader partner, engaged in political chatter. That partner of his has since passed on.
During our journey, Zahid's responsible driving, coupled with friendly banter in the front seat, captured our attention. Occasionally, he would turn around asking whether we were comfortable in his Volvo sedan.
It was only during an unexpected diaper change for our one-year-old son that Zahid's true charisma unfolded.
Making an emergency stop at a kampong house, he skillfully negotiated the use of their facilities, showcasing his ability to charm even in unforeseen circumstances.
Unbeknownst to us at the time, Zahid's partner rose to ministerial status during Najib's era.
Reflecting on this encounter, it seemed Zahid had the makings of a promising politician.
Fast forward to today, in 2024, and regardless of one's opinions about him, Zahid Hamidi has ascended to the position of Deputy Prime Minister, validating my intuition from 37 years ago.
This personal anecdote sheds light on the human side of a prominent political figure, highlighting Zahid Hamidi's affable nature and ability to navigate both formal political discussions and unexpected situations, like a diaper change, with grace.
It serves as a reminder that beneath the political titles lie individuals whose journeys are shaped by personal encounters, perhaps even a chance diaper change at a kampong house along the old Port Dickson-Seremban road.
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