KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has revealed that his coalition did not strike any deals with former political adversaries during the formation of the unity government.
Instead, he said certain compromises were made in the interests of national stability and good governance.
Addressing a forum at the Council of Foreign Relations (CFR) in New York two weeks ago, the Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman acknowledged that some individuals had expressed scepticism about the decision to collaborate with a coalition he had opposed for two decades.
Yet despite the deep-seated rivalries of the past, Anwar said he had known the dominant Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition for a long time and now considered them an important partner in his administration.
“Some of my friends were cynical. They said I must have made some deals and some compromises. Compromises, yes, but what deals? Good governance and reigning in the culture of corruption,” Anwar said in response to a question about cooperation between PH and Barisan Nasional (BN).
Anwar recognised the challenges of this partnership, saying, “Of course, they (friends) are concerned. I would accept it’s not easy, but what choice do we have? Can we continue the government with this factional strife and enmity?”
He added that if PH and BN worked together with a clear vision, it can demonstrate that a Muslim-majority country can emerge as a vibrant, mature democracy that values justice and compassion, while embracing all communities in an inclusive manner.
Anwar was addressing members of CFR, an independent think-tank that specialises in foreign policies and international relations, and which consisted of renowned US-based academicians, established politicians and corporate figures.
During a convention in May this year, Anwar said the unity government was in accordance with a decree of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
This decision came about as no political parties secured a simple majority in the 15th general election in November last year, and it was seen as a concerted effort to reinstate stability in the country.
Meanwhile, during the forum in New York, Anwar emphasised that while tackling corruption – a significant part of his mandate – posed substantial challenges, government leaders must unequivocally condemn graft practices that could negatively impact the nation.
“Everybody talks about the war against corruption. If you’ve launched this battle, you’re dealing with a strong coterie of very corrupt elements and they’re very powerful, with many of them controlling government apparatus, businesses and the media.
“Importantly, the leadership must set an example by having impeccable credentials while being uncompromising and taking a ‘no-nonsense’ approach (against corruption). You must show that you’re prepared to take the bull by the horns.” – October 2, 2023