Malaysia now a nation of compromises, says Shahril on Ahmad Zahid's DNAA

In relation to the discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) granted to Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for 47 graft charges involving Yayasan Akalbudi funds, Shahril Hamdan stated that Malaysia has become a nation of compromises.

Shahril, the former Umno information chief and co-host of the Keluar Sekejap podcast, expressed that Malaysians have always seen Pakatan Harapan and Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as symbols of hope. He stated that the standard of comparison for Barisan Nasional and Umno was unconsciously set by Pakatan. Shahril stressed the need for Barisan and Umno to demonstrate that they too support reform, progressiveness, and democracy.

Shahril opined that Malaysia has lost its sense of hope and principles, and has become a nation of compromises. He made these remarks on the Keluar Sekejap podcast on Wednesday (Sept 6).

Shahril also lamented the disappearance of democracy and good governance from Pakatan’s brand. He questioned where the people would place their hopes, as neither Perikatan Nasional nor Pakatan were appealing options. Shahril also expressed skepticism towards Umno and Muda, highlighting Muda’s loss of their deposits in the election.

Meanwhile, Khairy Jamaluddin, another host of the podcast, expressed his sadness over the current state of Malaysia. He viewed it as the price Malaysia is paying for Anwar to become the Prime Minister. Khairy felt compassion for Anwar, especially considering the recent 25th anniversary of the Reformasi movement and how it coincided with these unfavorable circumstances.

Khairy also mentioned the trial that Anwar has endured throughout his political journey and expressed his desire for a positive ending for him. He questioned why Anwar has to face this new challenge.

These remarks from Shahril Hamdan and Khairy Jamaluddin follow the High Court’s decision to grant a DNAA to Ahmad Zahid for all 47 graft charges related to Yayasan Akalbudi funds. In his judgement, Justice Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah justified the extended investigation time due to the large number of pages submitted by the defense for examination by the prosecution.