SHAH ALAM – The former political secretary to the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin has described himself as “personally very lucky” to have served under Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, whom he credits as a tireless and deeply committed leader.
Shamsul stated that Anwar’s work ethic, discipline and moral clarity continue to shape his understanding of leadership, even after decades in the political arena.
“I am personally very lucky. I feel very happy and blessed that we can work together under his guidance. He has demonstrated why leadership is important; that is, I think, paramount.
“When you talk about a strong leader, a committed leader, you can see those qualities in him. You can learn so much more from him,” Shamsul told Sinar Daily during a recent segment of Politically Frank.
Coming from a family with no previous political background, his father was a hospital assistant and his mother a clerk, Shamsul’s journey into politics began during his law studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
It was there, amid academic discussions on constitutional law and governance, that his awareness of public service deepened.
Witnessing the political upheaval of 1998, particularly the personal and political challenges faced by Anwar, became the catalyst for his lifelong commitment to public life.
Shamsul recalled the Prime Minister’s relentless work ethic even at the age of 78, drawing lessons from both his dedication and his emphasis on maintaining a total focus on the responsibilities at hand.
Reflecting on his own career, Shamsul highlighted the vital importance of judgment and integrity.
During his tenure as political secretary, he navigated periods where Anwar’s credibility faced intense public scrutiny ahead of key elections.
His eventual decision to step down from the post was made out of principle, balancing personal responsibility with loyalty to the office.
“It is just a post; it is a responsibility. When you have to face it, you face it and let Allah give you strength,” he added.
One of the most significant milestones in his political career occurred in 2013, when he secured the Bukit Katil seat by defeating the then-Chief Minister Tun Muhammad Ali Rustam.
While he downplays the idea of a single “proudest moment,” he reflects fondly on the significance of that victory and the affirmation of public trust it represented.
Shamsul also revealed that he embraces criticism as a fundamental part of the political process.
Rather than ignoring negative feedback, he believes it provides a necessary opportunity for reflection and improvement.
He integrates this mindset with a morning routine of prayer and reading the Quran, which provides a sense of calm before he engages with public commentary.
“I am a guy who loves to read all the criticism because I believe in one thing...whatever you do, there is always a flip side to the coin,” he said.