Why Rakyat No Longer Trust Politics

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Malaysia has seen its fair share of political turbulence - party infighting, shifting alliances, and self-serving theatrics that have tested public trust.
While the country enjoys a period of stability, many wonder whether this is a lasting equilibrium or merely a temporary pause before the next wave of political manoeuvring.
Stability, after all, is not just about the absence of crisis; it is about sustained good governance that prioritises the rakyat over political elites.
There is also a growing perception that “politics” has become synonymous with self-interest and power struggles. Political backstabbing, patronage, and the relentless pursuit of positions and privileges have reinforced this negative image.
But is this truly what politics was meant to be?
Tug-of-war between power, public service
From ancient Greece to modern governance, politics has always been a battleground between those who seek power for personal gain and those who genuinely want to serve.
Aristotle noted that many politicians acted in self-interest rather than for the good of society. Plato, on the other hand, was sceptical of democracy, arguing that it often led to mob rule, where popularity trumped wisdom.
His solution? For a philosopher-king to rule guided by intellect, virtue, and knowledge rather than emotion and populism.
Yet, history has shown that no political system is perfect. Whether democracy, monarchy, or any hybrid model, governance is an evolving process of trial and error. The success of any system ultimately depends on the integrity of its leaders and the vigilance of its citizens.
Despite public frustration, politics remains unavoidable. Laws, policies, and national decisions affect every citizen - whether or not they actively engage in political discourse.
However, balance is crucial. Political ignorance breeds complacency, while political obsession leads to division. Malaysia has witnessed friendships and even family ties severed over political disagreements, proving that extremism - whether in support or opposition - is never productive.
Awareness without blind loyalty
A healthy democracy requires an informed public. Malaysians must move beyond party loyalties and develop a deeper understanding of governance, policy, and national interest.
Political maturity is not about unwavering support for a leader or party but about holding all leaders accountable, regardless of affiliation.
Politics, in its truest form, is not about clinging to power. It is about upholding national dignity, ensuring stability, and safeguarding the well-being of the rakyat. But dignity cannot be demanded - it must be earned through competence, integrity, and self-reliance.
Every political system is shaped by history, culture, and necessity. There is no perfect formula - only continuous adaptation. True political maturity is not about choosing sides but about critically evaluating policies and leadership, ensuring that governance serves the rakyat, not just the ruling class.
Between tradition and reform
Respect for tradition is important, but not all customs should be preserved without question. Bowing in submission out of fear or financial dependence is not a tradition that upholds dignity - it erodes it.
Coalition government leadersTrue respect is built on mutual recognition, not blind obedience.
Reform is often met with resistance, especially when it threatens entrenched interests. Some reforms may appear costly in the short term but are necessary for long-term progress.
Conversely, opposition to reform is often disguised as concern for the rakyat, when in reality, it serves to protect political and economic monopolies.
National strength does not stem from isolation or arrogance. Cooperation with others must be built on respect and reciprocity - where Malaysians respect others and expect the same in return.
Boundaries and principles must be upheld, ensuring that national dignity is never compromised.
A concerning trend in modern politics is the deliberate distortion of facts for political gain. Politicians will attack their rivals even when good policies are implemented simply because acknowledging success would be seen as a political weakness.
Conversely, they will defend their own parties even when mistakes are glaring. This toxic culture breeds distrust and weakens governance.
A mature political landscape requires the ability to give credit where it is due and to critique one’s own side when necessary. Only then can public trust in the system be restored.
Corrupt cycle of politics and wealth
For some, politics is a pathway to wealth. For others, wealth is a means to political power. This toxic cycle is evident when individuals fund political campaigns in exchange for influence, while politicians seek financial backers to secure their rise.
Democracy, in such cases, becomes a transaction where governance is secondary to self-interest.
At the same time, many political parties have lost sight of their original struggles. Internal conflicts and factionalism have taken precedence over national progress.
Leaders are more focused on securing their own positions than addressing the real challenges faced by the rakyat.
Integrity over rhetoric
Malaysia does not lack policies; it lacks sincere implementation. The country has the resources to eradicate poverty, yet aid is often distributed based on political loyalty rather than genuine need.
Integrity must be the foundation of governance. Without sincerity, even the best policies will fail. National development should not be dictated by party politics but by a commitment to justice, fairness, and the well-being of all Malaysians.
Malaysians are no longer naive. They can distinguish between political gimmicks and genuine leadership. Moving forward, the focus must shift from mere rhetoric to real solutions.
The battle for national dignity is not won through empty slogans or political theatrics. It is secured through hard work, integrity, and a commitment to the nation’s future.
Politics should serve the people, not enslave them. The only way forward is to reject political fanaticism and embrace a system built on wisdom, fairness, and accountability.
A nation’s progress is not determined by its political affiliations but by its ability to uphold justice, dignity, and self-respect. It is time for Malaysia to rise above political theatrics and embrace a future defined by competence, ethics, and national pride. - Mkini
MAHATHIR MOHD RAIS is a former Federal Territories Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional secretary.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.

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