SIK – After days of trading barbs, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim finally landed in Jeneri to face-off with caretaker Kedah menteri besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor on his turf.
Anwar was greeted by more than 3,000 residents as he made his way to Felda Teloi Timur in a government helicopter 9M-JPM at 6pm, accompanied by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
In jest, he said, ostensibly referring to Sanusi, “This helicopter belongs to the government, it’s not mine, you cannot use it. Why are you bitter about it?”
Earlier this year, Sanusi had questioned Anwar over the cost of the prime minister’s helicopter usage.
In his speech, Anwar also slammed parties that often champion Islam and Malays but never really aid them in resolving their ongoing issues.
Ostensibly referring to Perikatan Nasional (PN), Anwar said that, as the prime minister, he too is never spared from being smeared, cursed, and insulted by the group that claims to carry the Islam and Malay struggle.
“I want to put a full stop to hardcore poverty nationwide this year. There are many who are poor but are able to buy school uniforms and milk, but the hardcore poor are unable to buy even a tin of milk for their children.
“When they say long live Islam and Malays, (but) they don’t even buy milk for their supporters. They afford houses, money, and riches; how much (have they made)?
“I am not lying about this, but (in criticising me), do not be vulgar, do not cuss and slander others at will,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, Anwar said that with the current political atmosphere being more stable, he would want to resolve the issues plaguing Felda, which is presently under the Prime Minister’s Department, before it is placed under the purview of another ministry.
“I have given the mandate to the chairman (Datuk Seri Shabery Cheek) because I know he has the capability and that he is serious.
“Insyallah, I will bring forth changes with all my effort. This is because Felda’s issues are aplenty, and I want to resolve them quickly,” he said.
He added that the country’s system needs the support of the rakyat to ensure that the government will be able to channel aid to resolve various issues, including those in Felda.
“I would like to call on Felda settlers, the first, second, and third generations, to show their commitment. I have tried my very best, no one can deny that.
“In addition to (clearing Felda’s debts of) RM8.3 billion, the issues involving internet connectivity, dialysis centres, poorly-equipped schools, and street lights will be resolved.
“We have resolved so much in eight months, imagine if we are able to run the government for five years. I will not forget the sacrifices of the Felda folk,” he added. – August 4, 2023