Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has appealed to Malaysians to give his administration more time to carry out reforms, acknowledging public frustration over the pace of change while warning that faster action could provoke stronger political resistance.
Addressing those who believe his administration has fallen short of expectations, Anwar admitted there were shortcomings but said his Cabinet was continuing to push ahead with reforms despite challenging circumstances.
“First, I have done the best I could. I apologise if it does not satisfy those who feel that it needs to be expedited.
“But you must understand, expediting action also invites hostility, as is happening now,” he said in an episode of the SembangOhhYeahh podcast aired today.
Anwar said efforts to accelerate reforms could face intense resistance from entrenched interests seeking to preserve the status quo.
“There are people who do not want any action, do not want any disclosure and do not want the word ‘sakau’ (embezzlement) to be used. They still exist.
“But I am grateful to those who have given their trust, and I want to appeal from the bottom of my heart to give us a chance to save our country,” he said.
Acknowledging that prime ministers “come and go”, Anwar said his priority was to protect Malaysia’s standing and future potential.
“As I have said, prime ministers come and go, and I am mindful of that (in BM: saya insaf akan hal itu). But the country must be saved.”
He cited the enthusiasm shown by young Malaysians during recent National Day celebrations as a sign of their optimism and confidence in the country’s future.
“Malaysia has extraordinary potential. Young people, whether at universities or working in the public service, show their awareness and their interest.
“Just look at the way they celebrate our Independence Day. With great enthusiasm, with very high hopes.”
Anwar said Malaysia must build on its progress rather than return to practices and attitudes that could weaken the country.
“Do not turn back, look back and regress backwards. This country must move forward and at the level we have achieved now, we are respected in the region and in the world. Do not waste this opportunity.
“Do not allow us to return to practices and a culture of hatred towards people, hatred towards races and being more willing to accept corruption and abuse.
“This country has strength. Do not destroy it. That is what I hope for.”
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said he remained open to criticism and acknowledged that there were areas where he could improve.
“I am open to criticism and I have been criticised a lot. I am the prime minister who has gone down to universities the most, engaging in dialogue with the young people. I can improve whatever I consider to be shortcomings and weaknesses.
“But I want to appeal, do not allow this country to be let down by a group whose interests could destroy our own strength.”
