THE responsibilities of the Deputy President of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) have become increasingly vital as party president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim steers the nation through uncertain times, said Nurul Izzah Anwar.
Speaking after her official victory as PKR’s new number two, Nurul Izzah stressed that the party must now channel its energy into strengthening internal governance to allow the president to concentrate fully on leading the country.
"We will intensify efforts to reinforce the party and ensure internal governance is on the right track so that the president can fully focus on national administration," she said in a statement on Facebook on Sunday.
She outlined plans to implement a universal programme across all party branches to strengthen grassroots operations.
"This programme will focus on strategies to increase support, adopt effective approaches to reach the people, and identify the best ways to assist local communities.
"We cannot send warriors into battle without strength. We will ensure every ‘general’ and fighter of the party, from branches to the centre, is equipped with sufficient strength, knowledge, resources, and fighting spirit for the political challenges ahead,” she added.
Nurul Izzah secured the deputy presidency after defeating the incumbent, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, in a closely watched party election. The official results were announced by Central Election Committee chairperson Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa during the PKR National Congress held at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre on Friday.
Nurul Izzah, a former Member of Parliament for Permatang Pauh, garnered 9,803 votes against Rafizi’s 3,866.
Known as the ‘Princess of Reformasi’, Nurul Izzah extended her gratitude to supporters for the trust placed in her, stressing that the victory was not a time for celebration but for renewed effort and engagement with the grassroots.
"This is not a time to cheer or rest. It's time to double down, to go to the ground, to listen, to roll up our sleeves, and to return to the real battlefield.
"We have no time to waste. I step forward not with pride, but with a deep sense of responsibility, knowing every vote is a trust, and every trust demands real work," she said.
"Let us rebuild this strength. If there are fractures, let us mend them. If there is distance, let us bridge it.
"Together, we can bring real reform — heartfelt and people-driven. I represent everyone, whether you voted for me or for Rafizi. Let us embrace this mandate together," she concluded. - May 25, 2025
