It’s no exaggeration to say that Anwar Ibrahim’s long and winding political career culminating in his becoming Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister, is the world’s Eighth Wonder of the world.
These are the views expressed Datuk Seri Azman Ujang, former Bernama editor-in-chief, chairman and CEO.
“We are all happy Anwar achieved his dream of being Prime Minister, and that’s the GOOD STUFF for the nation. As I was growing up, I learned the world has Seven Wonders. To me, Anwar reaching the top position to helm the country despite all the challenges is the eighth wonder,” comments Azman in the foreword of the book PRISON TO PALACE, PM FOR ALL
“This book talks about his struggles. Anwar is one whose footprints leave indelible marks on his life. A philosophy of transparency, integrity and justice drives Anwar. There is no room for a pretentious talk or egoistic warfare. Anwar has the distinctive quality of grit to lead and the vision to move Malaysia forward following the victory of GE15. For him, it is about living and doing what is right and just for the masses.
“He is now the PM for all Malaysians, irrespective of race, religion or region you come from. Anwar is taking over the country during unprecedented times. His premiership is heralded as the dawn of a new and united Malaysia,” Azman noted in the book.
“The author and I were journalists before, and we covered many heads of state on our overseas assignments. I am awed by author’s energy to write prolifically. I cannot fathom how Krishna wrote and edited this book within two months. He added the book visualises and paints a picture of hope for the future if we are prepared to learn from past mistakes.
“Anwar is a man committed to serving a multiracial and multireligious society that will make him Malaysia's dream leader. Anwar created history – from prison to the palace to the Prime Minister's office. Today, he faces a very different sort of trial -- bringing stability to a country under the shadow of one of the biggest financial scandals (1MDB) the world has ever seen.”
The book has Malaysian narratives and articles that best describe ANWAR, PRISON TO PALACE, and PM FOR ALL. Chapters reflect the inner stirrings of Malaysian journalists and commentators who shed penetrating insights into the events leading to the iconic moment of Anwar's crowning glory as Prime Minister.
November 19, 2022, was a momentous day for all Malaysians. It heralded a new economic, social and political landscape for the citizens. The book weaves stories of hurt and healing, abuse and forgiveness, gloom and glory, and tears and triumph.
November 24, 2022, was the most important day of his political career when Anwar was sworn in as the 10th Prime Minister. It was Anwar's final lap to Putrajaya.
Anwar is a man with a lot of goodwill and is widely recognised by the international community. The economy will be Anwar's top priority in facing fierce Malay-dominated opposition. Anwar's ascension to the premiership was a turbulent political life. It has propelled him into the corridors of power and landed him inside a jail cell for about ten years, more than 24 years ago. He lived in a world consumed by threats, repression and injustice.
Narratively, the author notes Anwar can handle stress with his ever-smiling grin while being calm, warm and friendly, shaking hands with the public willingly and happily. He will not tolerate corruption and abuses. We can rest assured that in his fight against corruption, more kleptocrats will be dragged to court.
Azman started as a Bernama’s cadet reporter in Kuching in 1971. He became Editor-in-Chief in 2004 – 2007 and was appointed Chief Executive Officer (2007/08). He was chairman of Bernama (2016-2020), and served the national news agency for 41 years.
Azman commented: “Anwar has his work cut out for him. Anwar will elevate Malaysia's standing, role and position as a progressive, democratic and influential nation worldwide. His experience, expertise and credentials during recessions in the late 1990s will be a guiding light in setting the economy right. At the same time, he will repair and enhance ties with key players and review our current approach to China and the West. Malaysians, who voted for Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope), in short PH, are confident Anwar will restore the country's image and standing to regain the trust and confidence of other nations.”
Anwar believes that the hands that serve are holier than the lips that pray. As such, he is not taking any salary, no new official car or renovations in his office. Calling it a new culture to be practised by all, he said wastage must be avoided in his administration "because every ringgit counts".
Anwar's primary focus is on lowering the rising cost of living. According to Anwar, all government money would be used in the best way possible to prevent the wastages that had often happened in previous governments. The new PM must face the politician's challenge of providing leadership and putting the people first.
The book ANWAR: PRISON TO PALACE, PM FOR ALL, is available in bookstores and online. The book can be purchased at www.gerakbudaya.com, and it is RM28.
Freelance Writer M.Krishnamoorthy (www.imkrishna.net) is a media coach, associate professor and undercover journalist. M. Krishnamoorthy is a media coach, associate professor, and journalist who worked and freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German and Australian Television networks and the New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns going undercover as a beggar, security guard, blind man, disabled salesman and Member of Parliament.
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