LETTERS: The ongoing election campaign for the 15th General Election (GE15) is refreshing.
Thanks to the power of the internet and the new media, there is more balance in the media opportunities for all the political parties.
As echoed by a panel member on a TV programme recently, democracy should rightfully celebrate differences in views and stands.
If such an arrangement can be replicated in all future elections, our country is destined for a more harmonious, progressive, prosperous and sustainable future.
What has also lifted our spirits most as we look to the future is the emergence of a new breed of leaders from across the political divide.
In Barisan Nasional, Khairy Jamaluddin or KJ, as he is affectionately known, stands out as a leader who has proven his worth taking charge of the ministries he was tasked to manage.
During his time as the youth and sports minister, he was visibly involved in bringing improvement to the ministry.
Later as MOSTI minister, he was equally dynamic in transforming the ministry into one that, at long last, people could appreciate the important role science played in building and prospering the nation.
But, his biggest challenge would surely go to the time he helmed the Health Ministry. That was when Covid-19 pandemic was at its highest level of threat, with cases rising and anti-vaccine feeling high.
Credit should be given to KJ for his persuasive communication and negotiation skills which eventually led to the needed behavioural change among the people, not only to get vaccinated but to religiously observe the do's and don'ts of preventive measures prescribed by the ministry.
The other personality which many agree shows much promise to lead the nation is PKR's Rafizi Ramli. A professional who has never failed to impress the electorate with his brand of campaigning, exposing the various scandals in the country.
What is also refreshing is his deployment of the latest data analytics technology to decipher the emotions of the electorate, and use such feedback to develop his strategic plan to win votes.
His campaigning also uses a lot of the new internet media. As an accomplished debator during his Malay College Kuala Kangsar days, he has a natural talent for communication skills. His party colleague, Nurul Izzah, is another promising leader in the making.
Equally worthy of mention is the new secretary-general of DAP, Anthony Loke. Many salute his pragmatic style of dealing with the very contentious race issue.
Then, there is Umno's Shahril Hamdan who is contesting in Alor Gajah. Watching him offer views on the state of the nation, one cannot help but feel hopeful for the future of the country.
I am sure there are many more such young leaders. What is certain is that their emergence has given us all new hope and optimism.
Dr Ahmad Ibrahim
Ampang, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times