Voters looking for ‘calm’ leaders like Samsuri, says Shahril

KUALA LUMPUR: Voters today seem to be leaning towards leaders who project calmness, credibility, and restraint, with a preference for “understated” political styles such as that associated with Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, says Shahril Hamdan.

The former Umno information chief said the current political mood suggests that voters are less receptive to fiery rhetoric and grand promises, often described locally as “sembang deras” or “sembang kencang”, and are instead placing greater value on leaders who appear more grounded.

Speaking at a public forum here, Shahril noted that there appears to be growing discomfort among certain segments of the electorate with leaders perceived as overly rhetorical or lacking humility in their messaging.

“I think if I have to pick one trait that reflects the current vibe, it would probably be credibility and believability,” he said.

“There was a time when inspiration, urgency, or even a ‘let’s go for change’ mentality may have worked. But after years of disappointment, there seems to be a shift towards more understated candidates.

“Samsuri would embody exactly what I am describing. He represents almost everything that is the opposite of the traits people may now be growing tired of.”

Samsuri, the Terengganu menteri besar with a background in aerospace engineering, was named PN chairman in February, succeeding Muhyiddin Yassin, who resigned from the post effective Jan 1.

The Kemaman MP, who is a PAS vice-president, has regularly been touted as the Islamic party’s prime ministerial candidate.

Shahril said people like Samsuri reflect voters’ emerging preference for more understated leaders, as they are seen as less confrontational and more restrained in their political communication style.

He also suggested that even incumbents may need to reassess their communication tone ahead of upcoming polls.

Speculation has grown over the possibility of a snap GE16, with Johor and Negeri Sembilan set to hold state elections on July 11 and Aug 1, respectively.

“After being in power for some time, one can become less sensitive to these signals from voters,” Shahril said.

“There is value, I think, in a more understated tone. Tonality is sometimes as important, if not more important, than substantive issues such as experience, strength, and capability.

“Ultimately, I think it comes down to tone.”