PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on federal government leaders not to be defensive against attacks by the opposition when campaigning in the state elections.

He said Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN), especially Umno, should not give up and instead counter the attacks wholeheartedly.

“Previously, their propaganda was that they (Perikatan Nasional) were ‘clean’ and we did not say much, but it looks like some of our youngsters thought they were truly ‘clean’.

“I, as the finance minister, have seen the files. Previously I was the opposition leader, I attacked strongly, but it never occurred to me what they did. With gambling, people said it’s normal. During PN’s time, with PAS and Bersatu there, there were 22 special draws (by 4D gaming companies).

“During our time, one of the first things I did with Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was to reduce them to eight (draws). This is no small matter,” he said during the launch of the Kedah unity government machinery at the Guar Chempedak, last night.

Anwar said the government had solved many issues and was still addressing problems in various fields, including in agriculture and transportation, in the last eight months since helming Putrajaya.

Throughout his tenure as prime minister, there had never been any conflict over issues touching on Malays and Islam during cabinet meetings, he added. 

“The unity government has never sacrificed the principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution, it’s just gossip that we will betray our countrymen’s trust.

“Show me an instance where we have betrayed Islam. State an example where we have neglected the Malays. There is none, only evil propaganda and slander out there. I urge the people of Kedah to rise up and reject such slander, such betrayal, and stand up for the good of the people,” he said.

Also present at the event were Amanah president Mohamad Sabu and PH secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, along with other party leaders from the unity government. – Bernama, July 16, 2023.