Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Bersama candidates declare assets ahead of Melaka polls
The opposition party is pursuing transparency measures in its election campaign, with candidates making statutory declarations of their assets. Party leaders say the move represents a departure from traditional political practices in Malaysia.
LSN Malaysia ·
Bersama party candidates contesting the Melaka state election have declared their assets through statutory declarations, signalling a shift in campaign approach ahead of polling day.
The transparency initiative reflects party efforts to distance itself from what leaders describe as feudal political culture that has long characterised Malaysian politics. By making asset declarations public, candidates are inviting greater scrutiny of their financial positions and personal wealth.
Party President Rafizi Ramli indicated the measure aims to establish a new standard for political accountability in the state. The declaration process allows voters to review candidate backgrounds before casting their ballots, with some candidates reportedly welcoming constituents to visit their homes as part of the engagement process.
The move comes as Malaysian political parties increasingly face pressure to demonstrate transparency and good governance to electorates. Bersama's initiative in Melaka represents one approach to rebuilding public trust in political institutions through openness about candidates' personal circumstances and financial standing.