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THE decision by Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin to resign as Senior Political Secretary to the Prime Minister amid corruption allegations is insufficient to safeguard the Madani government’s image, a political analyst has cautioned.
Dr Hussain Yusri Zawawi of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin said the former Hang Tuah Jaya MP should demonstrate “the courage to uphold the truth” by lodging a police or Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) report to restore public confidence.
He argued that resignation alone, though widely viewed as a moral gesture in many democracies, cannot by itself dispel negative perceptions that may affect the administration.
According to Hussain Yusri, Shamsul’s departure “as an effort to protect the government’s image” reflected a commendable degree of political accountability within a modern administration. However, he warned that such a step should be paired with transparency and, where necessary, legal proceedings.
“To avoid room for speculation and increase transparency, this move should be accompanied by a process of clarification, and if needed, legal action to clear his name,” he said.
“Integrity must not only be expressed through moral actions such as resigning but also through the courage to uphold the truth with legal processes.
“The balance between perception politics and genuine principles of governance will determine public confidence in the Madani Government and the future of the country’s political culture.”
Shamsul had announced his immediate resignation on Tuesday via a post on X, saying he had been targeted by attempts to smear him in a way that could tarnish the government’s reputation.
His exit came amid calls from former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli for the Prime Minister to consider possible MACC action over a purported letter of support allegedly issued by one of the Tambun MP’s political secretaries.
Shamsul has since lodged a police report against businessman Albert Tei, accusing him of fabricating allegations with malicious intent towards the Prime Minister. MACC has confirmed it is investigating claims that Tei had allegedly bribed Shamsul.
Asked what broader signal Shamsul’s decision sends to other leaders, Hussain Yusri said political figures must now be more prepared to assume responsibility even if they personally believe they have done no wrong.
“In modern politics, perception often becomes more valuable than evidence because it rapidly shapes public narratives,” he said.
“This action strengthens a new political culture that emphasises moral responsibility rather than clinging to office until the end. In the long term, it has the potential to form a more mature and integrity-driven political environment, something long demanded by Malaysians.”
He added that digital-era politics has heightened the risk of perception-driven attacks, which could push leaders into adopting defensive postures and avoiding bold decision-making — a shift that could ultimately weaken political courage. - November 27, 2025