KUALA LUMPUR: Youth-based party Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) announces that it will work independently in the upcoming state elections.
Its president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman said the decision was made following a consensus between its members and committee.
He added that the party was also clear in its stance to form 'new politics' in Malaysia and would not accept any invitations from any political parties.
"Many wonder why a new political party like Muda wants to contest in the state elections.
"However, if we look back to the principle on how Muda was established, it was to create 'new politics' for every Malaysian, regardless of race or religion.
"We also want to speak out, be the people's voice of conscience and return the ultimate power to the people," he told a press conference at Muda's headquarters today.
Syed Saddiq, who is also the Muar member of parliament said the main decision to work independently was to also end fear-mongering politics in the country.
Citing examples of appointments in government-linked companies by the government, Syed Saddiq added that such cases ran contrary to the principles that were previously championed by several parties currently in the government.
"Enough with all the fear-mongering politics, this should not be used to justify incompetence, complacency and arrogance.
"(Some used) to say they want to fight corruption but they are far worse now. (Some used) to say they want reformation but the agenda has been sacrificed.
"The list continues, hence, we want this election to be a wake-up call (for them).
"Do not take the votes (given by the people) lightly and return the power to the people."
Asked whether any discussion was made with Pakatan Harapan (PH) for seat allocations, Syed Saddiq briefly said: "We have heard this since after (the last) election, (but nothing was given).
"There was also no discussion that took place (on seat negotiations).
"We have reached the consensus that it is no longer about seats, but the policies and changing the status quo (of the political landscape) now."
At the same time, he also announced that the party has elected its information chief Luqman Long as Muda's election director, and exco member Aini Hazieqah as the deputy.
Asked on seat allocation, Syed Saddiq said the announcement would be made from time to time via a virtual election campaign on the party's social media platform.
"We will do a town hall as part of our election campaign starting tonight.
"Meanwhile, the seat allocation is internal and will be announced from time to time.
"The road ahead will be longer, (but) it is okay. We are young and we see this as an investment in our country. We are also willing to put our time and effort to ensure we change Malaysia for good people."