PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated the unity government’s commitment to end hardcore poverty this year, even if additional funds are required for the purpose.

Anwar said all government ministries and agencies, as well as ministers, would work hard to realise the goal.

“Do you think that as prime minister I can sleep soundly thinking that those people (the poor) are neglected? Never, my friends… (if) RM100 million is not enough, RM200 million, I don’t care. I will find (the funds)…that’s my promise,” he said.

Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, was speaking at the Ceramah Mega Perdana programme in Ukay Perdana, Selangor last night, which was attended by more than 3,000 people.

Also present were Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, as well as PH-Barisan Nasional candidates for the Bukit Antarabangsa and Lembah Jaya state seats – Kamri Kamaruddin and Syed Ahmad Syed Abdul Rahman.

Meanwhile, when speaking at the Madani Unity Tour programme in Taman Permata, Hulu Kelang last night, Anwar said even if the opposition condemned or belittled the government’s efforts, it wouldn’t stop him and his cabinet to finding solutions to the people’s problems.

“Call me (whatever you want), insult me, even if you say I’m ‘stupid’ I don’t care… I will continue to do my best for the people and the country. I’m sure we can (do it).

“That’s why I said, I don’t want to merely build landmarks and have Malaysia be known only for great landmarks. The first thing I want solved is the people’s problems, the issue of hardcore poverty,” he said.

Anwar also urged the people in the area to make a wise decision by choosing PH candidate, Juwairiya Zukifli, over former Bukit Antarabangsa representative Mohamed Azmin Ali, saying the people should use their power at the polls to punish leaders who betrayed them in search of posts.

The state elections in Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Kedah, Penang, Kelantan and Terengganu are being held simultaneously on August 12, while early voting is tomorrow. – Bernama, August 7, 2023.