Asking nicely will take you far, PM reminds state leaders
KOTA KINABALU: Harsh words and raised voices will not benefit anyone when making requests from the Federal Government, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said that when fighting for state rights or asking for allocations, those who choose to work with Putrajaya and discuss matters calmly can achieve much.
'For example, in the PETRONAS and Petros Sarawak issue, we discussed things properly with Abang Jo (Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg) and came to a solution,' he said at the Sabah-level Kaamatan celebration in Penampang on Friday (May 30).
He said this was also the same on the international stage, where Malaysia aims to be friends with as many nations as possible for mutual benefit.
ALSO READ: Govt listens to states' needs in setting 13MP priorities, says PM
He said the Federal Government has no intention of stopping any state from acting in its own interests, and has no issue giving Sabah and Sarawak more in terms of revenue, including for oil and gas.
'However, we should discuss it and have close working relations rather than try to win an argument by shouting or cursing here and there," he added.
Earlier, Anwar said the government would always listen to views and requests from states, be it for infrastructure or socio-economic development.
He pointed out that close ties between Sabah and Putrajaya would bring more benefits than difficulties.
'This is not about (the upcoming state) election but about our shared responsibility and to protect our harmony. State-federal relations must be maintained,' he added.
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