JOHOR BARU, May 24 — Following his defeat in the race for Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) deputy president, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has issued a heartfelt message, thanking Malaysians and party members for their support while reaffirming his unwavering belief in the reformist ideals that first drew him into politics.
Despite a 6,000-vote loss to Nurul Izzah Anwar, Rafizi expressed relief and acceptance, saying he looked forward to returning to private life after nearly three decades of public service. Rafizi, who has spent 27 years in PKR, reflected on his journey—from his early days in the Reformasi movement to his time as Anwar Ibrahim’s chief of staff and as a leading voice against corruption, including his role in exposing the 1MDB scandal.
He acknowledged the disillusionment among grassroots members and voiced concern over the party’s current trajectory, particularly on issues related to electoral transparency and internal democracy. Nonetheless, Rafizi urged supporters to remain hopeful, emphasizing that ideals must outlast individuals. “Leaders come and go, but the ideal endures,” he said, reiterating his commitment to a multiracial, progressive Malaysia.
While stepping back from active party leadership, he promised to continue engaging with Malaysians and advocating for reform in other meaningful ways.
