‘Not happy? Let MPs decide or wait for GE'

The Star

20-07-2025

Honouring indigenous traditions: Anwar participating in an event with Orang Asli dancers at the opening ceremony of the national-level Unity Week celebration in the vicinity of Batu Kawan Stadium. — Bernama
NIBONG TEBAL: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim cautioned that any legitimate changes in government should follow constitutional procedures and not be attempted through street demonstrations.
Responding to recent protests calling for his resignation, the Prime Minister said while the government does not oppose peaceful assemblies, any transition of power should be carried out through democratic and lawful means to uphold stability and the rule of law.
'If someone believes that the Prime Minister no longer commands the majority in Parliament, they should follow the Dewan Rakyat Speaker's advice and file a motion of no confidence.
'Let it be decided through votes in Parliament, if there are the numbers. If not, wait until the next general election.
'You cannot try to topple the government just because you are dissatisfied or impatient,' he said at the National Unity Week celebration.
Anwar gave assurance that the government is always willing to listen to the people and does not govern by inciting hatred or destruction.
'We do not govern through anger or hatred, but by listening, reviewing and improving,' he said, dismissing allegations that the government suppresses freedom of speech.
'Don't think it's all easy. Building (a nation) takes time; destroying it is far easier. This country remains peaceful because the people are more mature and do not give in to incitement that causes division.'
Anwar said on the international stage, Malaysia's stability has attracted global attention, with Kuala Lumpur recently hosting key discussions during the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting.
'Kuala Lumpur has recently drawn global attention, and for the first time since Donald Trump became president, high-level talks took place between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
'They both held discussions, but more importantly, Malaysia was given space (to host such engagements). For the first time ever, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also held high-­level discussions with Rubio,' he said.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang gave an update on the ongoing National Unity Index, a key instrument to measure and strengthen national unity.
'The National Unity Index is expected to achieve a score of 0.7, which reflects the level of unity among Malaysians.
'This index assesses key aspects such as inter-ethnic relations, perceptions of national identity, and social trust, and serves as a main reference in formulating policies and ministry initiatives aimed at strengthening national unity.'
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, in his speech, reaffirmed the state government's strong commitment to community development and social unity through grassroots initiatives and inclusive representation.
'The state prioritises community development as a key agenda.
'This is evident through the appointment of the Village Com­munity Management Coun­cils, which remain active, attentive and close to the people across all walks of life,' he said.