Ku Li

For a man of his stature, background and experience, he could certainly throw his weight around but he has not done so. Such a stance reflects the depth of his character and values. Despite being a prince, Tengku Razaleigh demonstrates much humility and sensibility in his words that are carefully weighed and executed wisely.

While some characters are very petty and have no qualms about taking legal action against others for a variety of reasons, here is one man who is different from the others because he does not intend to take legal action against Bayan Baru MP Datuk Seri Zahrain Hashim’s revelation in Parliament where he listed eight Barisan Nasional (BN) lawmakers (including Tengku Razaleigh) who had wanted to jump to PKR in its Sept 16 Putrajaya takeover bid two years ago.

I admire Tengku Razaleigh for his sense of fairness and wisdom. He knows what is important and what are the issues that are worthy of a good fight and what are those that are mere petty issues that do no merit discussion.

When G. Manimaran asked him if he would take legal action against the former Penang PKR chief, Tengku Razaleigh asked: “For what?”Personally, I do not see any sense in filing law suits over petty issues for the sake of nitpicking or mudslinging objectives. It is a waste of time and resources of the country's legal system. Such a process is both destructive and should not be used so randomly. Law suits should be filed when the situation warrants such a move.

If only more leaders could demonstrate the elegance and wise choice in words like Tengku Razaleigh instead of being on the offensive to find fault with others like what many are doing so freely.Instead of focusing on the weak points of other leaders or parties, why can't they campaign or work towards the collective good of society in clear, tangible and practical ways that can show results? Why must so many concentrate on and play up certain issues that do not make our country a better place at all?

I am so sick of the vile and virulent statements that some spew from their mouths - words and messages that spread negativism and gloom instead of hopeful thoughts and practical statements that tell us what they will do, can do and/or plan to do. Are such negative messages a ploy to distract others from their own weaknesses or problems in their own backyard or their hidden agenda?

The current mudslinging matches between various factions is MOST unhealthy and definitely creates a negative climate, not only for citizens but also for investors.In the past, there used to be reports that outlined the efforts of certain lawmakers in their constituencies. Today, we read about how one is being questioned by the law, or being sued or being lambasted etc etc. That is certainly very depressing.

When was the last time anyone highlighted his/her plan for the rakyat who elected them into that position of power? This question applies to those MPs on both sides of the divide!!!The time has come for leaders to practise the art of meditation and to try a little bit of kindness towards others.

The time has come for our leaders to really think of the rakyat instead of their own objectives. Just because others are on the offensive does not mean one has to retaliate. We have to know what is worth the battle and what is not.

Definitely, Tengku Razaleigh is well aware if this maxim and is a shining example in this area. I salute him for his perseverance in speaking up without fear or favor on the oil royalty issue. He certainly has the interests of the rakyat in his heart.

Kudos to him - a true prince indeed!

and may I add - a true LEADER!