DR Mahathir Mohamad yesterday said he did not direct the word “pariah” at anybody in his recent remarks on Lynas Corporation.

“Who was I referring to?” the prime minister told reporters in Putrajaya when asked to comment about several PKR members who have lodged a police report against him over the use of the word.

Dr Mahathir reportedly said Lynas should not be treated like a pariah, as the rare earths firm has brought big investments and job opportunities.

Kapar PKR members then lodged a report against him, saying the use of the word “pariah” has hurt the feelings of the Indian community.

Dr Mahathir was also asked about the appointment of Jalil Rasheed, 37, as Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB) CEO.

Jalil has been perceived as being too young to take up the post, and his mostly overseas experience has caused concern that he may not understand well the economic direction suited for Bumiputeras.

“I did not get information on the appointment. PNB is under Zeti Akhtar Aziz, and she did not inform me (about the appointment).”

Asked whether there is a need to change Malaysia’s officially declared poverty rate, he said: “There is a need. But it is not as bad as pointed out by these people who come here for one day and stay in big hotels and pass judgment.”

United Nations special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights Professor Philip Alston reportedly said the country’s declared poverty level of 0.4% is vastly inaccurate, and that the actual level is between 16% and 20%. – Bernama, August 30, 2019.