NOW that the dust has settled over who will lead the smallest state in the nation, the people of Perlis look forward to greater development and better things to come.
While the recent political developments have strained PAS-Bersatu relations, the people have called for unity and to respect the decision taken by their Ruler.
While the former MB, Mohd Shukri Ramli may be a no-nonsense character, many saw him as one who adopted a lackluster approach to development and progress.
Businessman B. Muhsin said the royal household represents the interests and wellbeing of the people, who were getting tired over the slow development pace in Perlis.
"We seem to have wrong priorities. Perlis needs policies which stimulate the macro economy. It is good to be religious but at the same time, we also need more food on the table."
Social media has since been riddled with claims that Shukri was removed due to pressure to approve projects and that Bersatu had backstabbed PAS to take over the MB post.
However, for Muhsin, he sees them as all as having the same political DNA.
Bersatu leaders were previously from Umno and PAS started their politics as the ulama wing of Umno.
"They are all the same."
The only difference is that who wants to develop the state faster and better than their predecessors, said Muhsin.
People in Perlis see the state’s political scene driven by three elements, the royal house, politicians and their parties.
And all three need each other to ensure the interests of the people, which matters the most, is upheld, especially in a world riveted with conflicts, tariffs, polarisation, trade wars and climate change.
In Perlis, the royal household is highly respected and admired as in all Malay Sultanate states but here due to the "hemoi" (candour) culture, the relationship is extremely cordial.
The Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail, who has been at the helm of the throne since 2000, is highly approachable.
A royal, who studied at Penang Free School, His Royal Highness is a no-nonsense leader, who wants what is best for Perlis despite its apparent shortcoming due to its size.
It was learnt that Tuanku was meticulous, meeting majority of the 15 assemblymen, who were present in Perlis to convey his decree, showcasing heightened concern and an understanding of politics.
He met each one at a private audience to explain his decision.
Tuanku apparently told both PAS and Bersatu backbenchers that he looks at them as one entity governing the PN coalition.
"In Tuanku's mind, he sees both PAS and Bersatu as one party - PN, whom he hopes can govern the state as well as possible," said a Perlis assemblyman.
Political analyst Othman Abdul said that with politicians squabbling, there is no clear path towards good governance, hence the constitutional monarchy must play a role of nudging them forward.
Another resident from Perlis, Gan who runs a provision store also called on politicians and the people to respect the decision taken by the Istana.
“We must respect the decision by our Ruler. He has always had our interests at heart and if has consented to the new MB’s appointment, then we must trust his decision.
“There is great potential for development in Perlis, and it is time for us to harness and benefit from it,” he said.
The new Mentri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah has taken a page from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's playbook by taking a salary cut to symbolise that his administration is one with the people, who are struggling with living costs.
People want higher pay packets to cope with inflation or to find a way to reduce living costs - that will likely determine if Abu Bakar or Anwar are granted their respective second terms. - December 30, 2025
