Bersama unveils ‘Aku Janji’ pledge for Johor polls

JOHOR BAHRU: Parti Bersama Malaysia today unveiled its “Aku Janji” pledge for the Johor polls, saying it represents a commitment by its candidates to continue serving voters regardless of the election outcome.

Rafizi Ramli, who took over Bersama in May, said the pledge was not a manifesto, adding that it would be unrealistic for the party to launch such pledges when it does not expect to form the state government.

“If we offer a manifesto, people will say we are delusional,” he said in a press conference here.

Bersama is contesting 15 seats in the July 11 polls.

The former federal minister said the “Aku Janji” pledge reflected Bersama’s commitment to go beyond the election by providing constructive policy alternatives and solutions.

The pledge, among others, calls for Bersama candidates to propose constructive policy alternatives and help resolve development-linked issues, such as ensuring that data centres are properly planned to safeguard residents.

Candidates will also push for an integrated bus-based public transport system, upgrades to major roads, and stronger oversight of state finances and administration to curb leakages, waste, and bureaucracy.

New campaign approach

Rafizi said Bersama was introducing a new style of campaigning that encourages voters to meet candidates face-to-face so that constituents can assess them directly, instead of relying on large campaign programmes.

He said the party decided to adopt this approach to curb excessive spending by holding large-scale events.

Rafizi said voters could apply to have a Bersama candidate attend their event, or visit their homes or premises.