Some of the political geniuses in Malaysia

Khairy Jamaluddin

KJ is an enigma representing the youngsters who clamour for change in Malaysia, under the stewardship of United Malays National Organization. His meteoric rise, notwithstanding the support and easy climb backed by his father-in-law, former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Badawi has been the talk of town since his days of helming the Deputy UMNO Youth Leader. He is smart, witty, intelligent, Oxford-educated 'new Malay' who aspires to lead Malaysia in the very near future. While his fate within UMNO is much to be guessed, some say he will go far. Others say he will be doomed. One thing for sure, never dismiss this bright young star, as detailed by the Khairy Chronicles.

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad

Mahathir, the grand old man of Malaysian politics is certainly here to stay. Love him or hate him, there is a certain acknowledge by all quarters that he was instrumental in the development of Malaysia to date, perhaps sacrificing some of the fundamentals enshrined in the Constitution. Mahathir is also a master of perception and hold dear to the Machiavellian philosophy. To be decisive, firm, accurate, concise and precise are his trademarks in executing state chores. This no-nonsense statesman still plays a role in the Malaysian political scene, often making headlines criticising governments, be it state or federal level. At 84 years old and still going strong, expect much more of 'Mahathirism' in the future.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim

Anwar Ibrahim, for the right or wrong reasons, will always be the icon of charismatic leadership. His ability to influence the masses to rally for his Reformasi campaign proved that he has substantial support from quite a majority of Malaysians. Since falling out from UMNO, he has been advocating Ketuanan Rakyat and consistent in his struggle for a better Malaysia. His oratory skills are unmatched by any politician in Malaysia so far, dead or alive. The Anwar today may or may not be the Anwar yesterday. But it is imperative that he remains the opposition icon and hope to unite Pakatan Rakyat and mount a strong challenge to the ruling coalition.

Dato' Sri Najib Tun Razak

By virtue of being the Prime Minister, we must acknowledge Najib of his achievement although one might think he has it all on the silver platter by virtue of his family. Najib may not be the brightest politician around, but he is certainly smart enough to be labelled a political genius. He has travelled a long way since his days of UMNO youth chief and Pahang Chief Minister, and yet he has not really been tested by open elections in his party, and yet, the people accepted and respected him. No doubt, he controls the cash cows currently, but ultimately, the 13th general election will be his performance yardstick. His genius flair will show if he can overturn the rakyat's anger against the Barisan Nasional.

Tuan Guru Nik Aziz Nik Mat

This Kelantan PAS CM and Spiritual Leader is what the Pope is to the Catholics, to his own people of Kelantan and PAS supporters. His words are powerful and combined with the religious credentials he has in his belt, it is no surprise that Nik Aziz will remain most influential in PAS.