With the 16th General Election (GE16) expected to be approximately two years away, the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) Youth wing has already identified its preferred candidate for the premiership.
The wing hopes to see Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri bin Mokhtar, the Menteri Besar of Terengganu, replace Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the next election as Prime Minister. Known affectionately as “Dr Sam,” the Terengganu leader is being positioned as a credible alternative to Anwar.
Datuk dr sam (left)
“Dr Sam for Malaysia”
In an official statement shared on its Facebook page, PAS Youth emphasised that Dr Sam stands out because he is unlike many career politicians. The wing highlighted his strong technocratic background, which is underpinned by high-level academic credentials from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.
Dr Sam obtained a PhD in Aeroengine Ignition and Combustion (High Altitude Engine Failure) from the School of Mechanical Engineering in 2001, following a Master of Science in Combustion and Energy in 1996. These credentials in engineering and energy studies have shaped his reputation as a data-driven and methodical decision-maker.
PAS Youth further described his leadership style as calm, composed, and results-oriented. Rather than engaging in “political theatrics,” he is perceived as a leader who prioritises policy execution and measurable outcomes.
Terengganu under Dr Sam’s leadership
Additionally, PAS Youth also mentioned the improvement that Terengganu has seen over the years under Dr Sam’s leadership. Since 2018, the state has reportedly secured RM14.86 billion in investments across various sectors.
In the first half of 2025 alone, investment figures reached RM6 billion, which marked the highest ever recorded for six months in the state’s history. The unemployment rate has also declined to 2.8 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, marking its lowest level in over a decade.
According to data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), Terengganu’s Gross Domestic Product expanded by 4.5% to RM39.9 billion in 2024, up from 2.3% the previous year. The construction sector, in particular, saw significant growth of 17.5% in 2024 compared to 1.7% previously, reflecting intensified development and investment activity.
Who do you have in mind that could be a better fit for the next Prime Minister?
