PRIME Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad tonight urged Malaysians to be patient as the Pakatan Harapan government implements austerity measures to reduce the country’s debt.

In his Hari Raya Aidilfitri message broadcast on RTM 1, the PH chairman urged citizens to join the government in cutting expenses and spending wisely, adding that these steps would ensure a better future.

“We promise we will work very hard to get the country back on the right track, but to achieve this, austerity measures have to be taken.

“(The government) will no longer distribute illicit money to win over the people’s hearts,” said Dr Mahathir.

He said after defeating Barisan Nasional in the 14th general election, PH was shocked to discover that the country’s debt, including guarantees, had exceeded RM1 trillion.

Dr Mahathir, who recently returned from a work visit in Japan, said Malaysia would overcome these financial difficulties with a strong spirit.

“The challenges we face now are not as grave as those faced by our friends in a few countries, especially in the Middle East,” he said.

He said in other countries, people’s hopes for democracy are not only dashed, but civil wars break out and lives are ruined instead.

Dr Mahathir reminded Malaysians that they could still celebrate this holiday season comfortably after a historic and peaceful transition of power on May 9.

In wishing all Muslims Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, he apologised for any mistakes he has made and urged non-Muslims to celebrate the festivities with their Muslim friends.

“Let us nurture the spirit of unity among different races during this Aidifiltri,” he said. – June 14, 2018.