BEING called “PM tepi” (PM on the sidelines) does not offend PKR president Anwar Ibrahim.

Speaking at the Jelajah Keadilan event in Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, the opposition leader said regardless of what he is labelled, he can be proud of himself for not betraying the people. 

“Even though I’m (called PM) tepi, I didn’t betray the people or steal the people’s money,” he told a crowd of about 300 at the event. 

Anwar said certain lawmakers had mocked him for raising concerns about inflation. 

The Port Dickson MP said some said he was desperate to be the prime minister. 

Anwar said it is not easy for him to become the prime minister because many have conspired against him.

He alluded that Dr Mahathir Mohamad was one of them although he did not mention the Langkawi MP’s name. 

“All the corrupt at the top conspired. Even those who are old and not able-bodied also conspired (against me). I do not name anyone. 

“Why did they do that? Because they know people from our party are brave enough to speak the truth,” he said. 

Anwar also took aim at the government for not having the courage to ask local tycoons to help with the rise in living cost. 

Citing cooking oil as an example, Anwar said Malaysia, as one of the biggest exporters of palm oil, could lower its price for domestic consumption. 

“Some big companies make huge profits of RM800 million to RM1 billion. It’s okay, let them make profit. 

“But they could sell 10 -15% of their products domestically at a lower price while still profiting. 

“But none of the ministers or the prime minister has the guts to face the tycoons about this issue.” 

Anwar dismissed the special task force set up to tackle inflation as being inefficient at its job.

He urged the people to to choose their government wisely.

“Choose a government, a leader who has the courage to face anyone to defend the fate of the people.” – October 4, 2022.