I would like to pick Zahid Hamidi as the 'Man of 2015' although others would prefer Prime Minister Najib Razak for his 1MDB and RM2.6 billion controversy, Dr Mahathir Mohamad for getting most headlines or others who helped colored our politics.
The Home Minister who rose suddenly to become Najib's deputy (of course at the expense of Muhyiddin Yassin) is now the guy carrying a heavy rucksack on his back - in helping Najib, clearing 'the air', consolidating Umno and Barisan Nasional and securing an orderly nation free of racial and religious prejudice.
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Many supported his appointment and not few argued or disputed it. But few months after making his way to Perdanaputra, some critics turned friendly.
Zahid is a leader who intercedes for the best of the country. His 'harsh' approach as the Home Minister drew criticism, especially among the opposition and their NGOs but I believe he has to subscribe to unpopular decision when it comes to putting the house to order.
He once said the deputy PM post is not a privilege but a big responsibility. Malaysia, he said is not a bed of roses for anyone to be complacent and relying too much on government's subsidies and incentives.
"Malaysians, especially the Malays got to work harder to elevate their position. Yes, I am a Malay but I also serve all Malaysians. We don't want to see the disparity gap creates uneasiness among some sectors of the society.
"We must complement each other. Whether we are Malays, Chinese, Indians or Ibans, it is important to respect and recognise each other, live as one society and advocating the right attitude. Is it so difficult?"
Those who know Zahid may agree that he puts national security and stability above all. Even the opposition would concur.
It reflects in some of the policies he announced in 2015, such as the Prevention of Terrorism Act (Pota), Security Offences (Special Measures) or SOSMA which replaces the International Security Act (ISA) and the National Security Council (NSC) Bill that are meant to making Malaysia a safe nation, not only for its citizens but also the foreigners.
It didn't come without contention. The opposition, the human rights groups and other NGOs were attacking the government over what they labelled as 'oppressive laws'. They even alleged the NSC Bill gives absolute power to the prime minister to reprimand and lock up anyone without the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
However, Zahid was fast to neutralise it with some answers to the Parliament and the media.
Zahid had, earlier this year stunned Malaysians for a letter to the US judiciary about a Malaysian 'gambling king' Paul Phua who was detained and put to trial there over an allegation of running a gambling syndicate during the last World Cup.
I remember when he said Paul used to help the government in security, which prompted the opposition demanding an explanation. However, Zahid said such matters cannot be disclosed to the public as it was very confidential. Criticism then started to fizzle out.
He irked many by declaring Bersih 4 rally on the eve of Merdeka Day. However, the police was very accommodating and no untoward incident happened, except for a few demonstrators who stepped on Najib's and Hadi Awang's picture. They were already reprimanded and released on police bail.
Then came the Red Shirt rally meant to protest Bersih 4. However, it was called off and held later on at the Padang Merbok. Zahid denied Umno and the government were behind it.
The Low Yat Plaza incident in July was attended to professionally when Zahid asked the police to 'investigate without bias' those involved in the theft and brawl. Although those involved said it had nothing to do with race, a few 'group leaders' who uttered racist remarks were detained for investigation.
And in December, similar incidents took place at the Kota Raya Complex, which Zahid described as an effort to undermine the law.
Zahid said, there were attempts by some quarters to challenge the authority by stirring unnecessary confrontations among race and religion, and his answer is simple - I won't tolerate with them... before they turn monstrosity, the authority will deal with them accordingly!
I like that, and those who love peace, stability and freedom would appreciate how this man handles things like that. He harbors no falsity in his words, and that differs him from other leaders and politicians who usually talk nonsense and do not walk the talk.
With various agencies under the Home Minstry - among which are Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM), Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (JIM), Rela, Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara (JPN), Agensi Anti-Dadah Kebangsaan (AADK) and Jabatan Penjara Malaysia, Zahid's hands are full.
And with additional task as a deputy prime minister, I think he should become a 'superman' to be able to shoulder it.
However, popularity is not on his mind. He delegates his duty well to his respective deputies, director-generals, the secretary-generals and other senior officials. Trusting them is paramount as it will yield expected results.
Knowing Zahid, its not easy to please him. One must be able to slot in logic and reasons to all explanations and results. Yes, he is not Mr Perfect but he gives strong emphasis in smooth implementation and the public response.
Some may have noticed his strong composure latterly, especially in security matters. He has to amid the new threat from the Islamic State, which Bukit Aman recently reported to have about 50,000 followers and sympathisers in the country.
"I don't compromise nor discount security matters. As long as such threats are coming, irrespective who and from where, we will come down hard on them. So, please support all laws enforced to keep our house clean and peaceful. They are not meant to stifle government critics," he said.
Despite his strong and stern words, Zahid is soft-hearted and have full respect for other leaders and politicians. The first thing he did after being made Najib's deputy on July 28 was a courtesy call on former premier Tun Dr Mahathir, seeking his piece of advise and guidance. I remember when Tun said he 'approves' Zahid's appointment.
Among friends, he is easy going. He love sharing jokes and laughter with them although he also made some enemies in politics, especially those who found him 'unapproachable'. However, many who used to turn their back on him are now making a 'U-turn'. Its normal, I suppose!
I know I am right to choose him as The Man of 2015. Others may have their own choice but I feel comfortable with the manner he runs the country besides Najib.
Becoming a PM?
Leave it to God! I believe Zahid will give the same answer...
Also readwhat PM says about the New Year
Zahid says Government is committed in ensuring fairness is protected
The Home Minister who rose suddenly to become Najib's deputy (of course at the expense of Muhyiddin Yassin) is now the guy carrying a heavy rucksack on his back - in helping Najib, clearing 'the air', consolidating Umno and Barisan Nasional and securing an orderly nation free of racial and religious prejudice.
Many supported his appointment and not few argued or disputed it. But few months after making his way to Perdanaputra, some critics turned friendly.
Zahid is a leader who intercedes for the best of the country. His 'harsh' approach as the Home Minister drew criticism, especially among the opposition and their NGOs but I believe he has to subscribe to unpopular decision when it comes to putting the house to order.
He once said the deputy PM post is not a privilege but a big responsibility. Malaysia, he said is not a bed of roses for anyone to be complacent and relying too much on government's subsidies and incentives.
"Malaysians, especially the Malays got to work harder to elevate their position. Yes, I am a Malay but I also serve all Malaysians. We don't want to see the disparity gap creates uneasiness among some sectors of the society.
"We must complement each other. Whether we are Malays, Chinese, Indians or Ibans, it is important to respect and recognise each other, live as one society and advocating the right attitude. Is it so difficult?"
Those who know Zahid may agree that he puts national security and stability above all. Even the opposition would concur.
It reflects in some of the policies he announced in 2015, such as the Prevention of Terrorism Act (Pota), Security Offences (Special Measures) or SOSMA which replaces the International Security Act (ISA) and the National Security Council (NSC) Bill that are meant to making Malaysia a safe nation, not only for its citizens but also the foreigners.
It didn't come without contention. The opposition, the human rights groups and other NGOs were attacking the government over what they labelled as 'oppressive laws'. They even alleged the NSC Bill gives absolute power to the prime minister to reprimand and lock up anyone without the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
However, Zahid was fast to neutralise it with some answers to the Parliament and the media.
Zahid had, earlier this year stunned Malaysians for a letter to the US judiciary about a Malaysian 'gambling king' Paul Phua who was detained and put to trial there over an allegation of running a gambling syndicate during the last World Cup.
I remember when he said Paul used to help the government in security, which prompted the opposition demanding an explanation. However, Zahid said such matters cannot be disclosed to the public as it was very confidential. Criticism then started to fizzle out.
He irked many by declaring Bersih 4 rally on the eve of Merdeka Day. However, the police was very accommodating and no untoward incident happened, except for a few demonstrators who stepped on Najib's and Hadi Awang's picture. They were already reprimanded and released on police bail.
Then came the Red Shirt rally meant to protest Bersih 4. However, it was called off and held later on at the Padang Merbok. Zahid denied Umno and the government were behind it.
The Low Yat Plaza incident in July was attended to professionally when Zahid asked the police to 'investigate without bias' those involved in the theft and brawl. Although those involved said it had nothing to do with race, a few 'group leaders' who uttered racist remarks were detained for investigation.
And in December, similar incidents took place at the Kota Raya Complex, which Zahid described as an effort to undermine the law.
Zahid said, there were attempts by some quarters to challenge the authority by stirring unnecessary confrontations among race and religion, and his answer is simple - I won't tolerate with them... before they turn monstrosity, the authority will deal with them accordingly!
I like that, and those who love peace, stability and freedom would appreciate how this man handles things like that. He harbors no falsity in his words, and that differs him from other leaders and politicians who usually talk nonsense and do not walk the talk.
With various agencies under the Home Minstry - among which are Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM), Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (JIM), Rela, Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara (JPN), Agensi Anti-Dadah Kebangsaan (AADK) and Jabatan Penjara Malaysia, Zahid's hands are full.
And with additional task as a deputy prime minister, I think he should become a 'superman' to be able to shoulder it.
However, popularity is not on his mind. He delegates his duty well to his respective deputies, director-generals, the secretary-generals and other senior officials. Trusting them is paramount as it will yield expected results.
Knowing Zahid, its not easy to please him. One must be able to slot in logic and reasons to all explanations and results. Yes, he is not Mr Perfect but he gives strong emphasis in smooth implementation and the public response.
Some may have noticed his strong composure latterly, especially in security matters. He has to amid the new threat from the Islamic State, which Bukit Aman recently reported to have about 50,000 followers and sympathisers in the country.
"I don't compromise nor discount security matters. As long as such threats are coming, irrespective who and from where, we will come down hard on them. So, please support all laws enforced to keep our house clean and peaceful. They are not meant to stifle government critics," he said.
Despite his strong and stern words, Zahid is soft-hearted and have full respect for other leaders and politicians. The first thing he did after being made Najib's deputy on July 28 was a courtesy call on former premier Tun Dr Mahathir, seeking his piece of advise and guidance. I remember when Tun said he 'approves' Zahid's appointment.
Among friends, he is easy going. He love sharing jokes and laughter with them although he also made some enemies in politics, especially those who found him 'unapproachable'. However, many who used to turn their back on him are now making a 'U-turn'. Its normal, I suppose!
I know I am right to choose him as The Man of 2015. Others may have their own choice but I feel comfortable with the manner he runs the country besides Najib.
Becoming a PM?
Leave it to God! I believe Zahid will give the same answer...
Also readwhat PM says about the New Year
Zahid says Government is committed in ensuring fairness is protected