Ganteng, Enom, ora Zahid [Hensem, muda, not Zahid]

Muda leaders tight-lipped on whether Syed Saddiq will be part of cabinet


As anticipation builds for the formation of a new cabinet under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Muda leaders remain tight-lipped on the possibility of Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman’s appointment to the cabinet.

Malaysiakini attempted to contact the Muda president and his team on the matter but has yet to receive a response.

Party co-founder Lim Wei Jiet, however, told Malaysiakini that he did not wish to comment at this juncture.

“We best await Anwar’s announcement on this,” he said.

Syed Saddiq (above) once served as the youth and sports minister in the previous Pakatan Harapan government.

He is also the only Muda politician who won a parliamentary seat in the recent general election.

However, the Muar MP is facing four charges in a criminal trial that involves more than RM1 million linked to Bersatu Youth.

This poses the question of whether it would be acceptable to have cabinet member candidates - such as Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, DAP chairperson Lim Guan Eng, and Sabah Umno chief Bung Moktar Radin - who all have ongoing court trials.

Yesterday, Anwar said that he is taking into account the views of all parties on the possibility of appointing MPs facing graft charges into the cabinet - with the matter still being discussed.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim


Earlier, Bersih and political figures such as Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim and former international trade and industry minister Rafidah Aziz had objected to any possibility of a person with ongoing criminal cases being appointed to the cabinet.

At the same time, Umno Youth treasurer Johari Yazid and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) have pledged support for Zahid to be named as deputy prime minister. Former PKR deputy president Tian Chua similarly argued that it was crucial for Anwar to cooperate with Zahid to successfully carry out reforms.

Anwar previously said that Harapan made a stand against MPs with court cases being considered for cabinet positions but further discussions were necessary among new partners in the government.

PM Anwar sends legal demand to PAS MP over clip claiming Israel link

PM Anwar sends legal demand to PAS MP over clip claiming Israel link

Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim speaks to media after PH Council meeting end at PKR headquarters in Petaling Jaya November 28, 2022. — Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 7:37 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today issued a letter of demand to PAS’ Baling MP Hassan Saad seeking either a denial of involvement in an allegedly defamatory audio clip shared on Twitter or an apology, failing which he would sue for defamation.

In the eight-page legal letter issued by Anwar’s lawyers, they claimed that Hassan had around November 27 published or caused an audio clip to be posted on Twitter via the Twitter handle “Mohd Ropi Mat Sin”.


Anwar’s lawyers also said that this audio clip was later shared by Twitter user “Pemikir Malaysia”, and that it has since been viewed 431,500 times and shared 3,300 times and retweeted 1,400 times as of today.

The lawyers said the audio clip had carried defamatory claims against Anwar by alleging that he was purportedly in contact with Israel or foreign enemies, but stressed that all such allegations are untrue and maliciously made against Anwar.


According to the lawyers, the audio clip has been linked to Hassan, based on his photo that was used as the background image for the clip, and claimed Hassan had yet to deny such links of causing the clip to be published.


But if Hassan denies such links to the audio clip, the lawyers said Anwar would be demanding for Hassan to carry out a list of actions, including making a public and written confirmation to Anwar or his lawyers to say that he had not uttered or caused the publication of the defamatory words and the audio clip.

Anwar’s lawyers said Hassan would be considered to have admitted his involvement in the audio clip if no denial is received within three days of receiving this letter of demand, which means legal action would be initiated against him.

Anwar also demanded for Hassan to immediately and publicly make an unconditional retraction of the defamatory audio clip, as well as to make an unconditional apology to be published in newspapers and media of Anwar’s choice and to make a written undertaking or promise to not repeat the allegations in the audio clip.

Anwar’s lawyers said that failure to do so would result in them seeking an injunction order from the court and to initiate a legal action against Hassan.

Anwar is also seeking for compensation over the serious injury to his reputation and for legal costs to be borne by Hassan, with Anwar’s lawyers stressing that any failure by Hassan to provide a satisfactory response within three days of this letter being received would result in legal action against the latter.

When contacted, Anwar’s lawyer Datuk Sankara Nair confirmed to Malay Mail that the letter has been posted to Hassan.

Local daily New Straits Times had last night reported Hassan as claiming to “have no idea” on who was behind the audio clip and declining to comment further.

Zahid eyeing DPM post

The Star:

Zahid eyeing DPM post


By JOCELINE TAN





THIS may sound incredible, but a campaign of sorts has started in Umno to push Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) for the deputy prime minister (DPM) post.

Despite his corruption case, Ahmad Zahid has emerged as a strong contender for the job, alongside Umno No. 2 Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.


The Umno president has brushed aside pressure to take responsibility for Umno’s losses in the general election and his supporters are now suggesting that he accepts the DPM job which he held from 2015 to 2018.

Strange things are happening every day in Malaysia’s politics and Ahmad Zahid’s bid for the DPM post has to be one of the strangest.

But rumours that he has actually submitted his name for the job are untrue.

His support is most obvious in his home state of Perak where the majority of division heads have credited him for enabling Umno to form the Umno-Pakatan Harapan government.

Only Pasir Salak, Bruas and Padang Renggas did not join in the chorus of support.

“It’s like living in the twilight zone. Just two weeks ago we were fighting Pakatan, now we are in government with them,” said Pasir Salak vice-chief Dr Faizal Tajuddin.

Wangsa Maju division chief Datuk Seri Shafei Abdullah claimed that Ahmad Zahid has the majority support of division chiefs all over the country.

A hastily-convened solidarity gathering at the Riverside Cafe in the WTC complex on Thursday (Nov 24) drew almost 100 division chiefs who did not hold back in their support for Ahmad Zahid.

As Ahmad Zahid, who turned up towards the end of the gathering, was making his speech, those on the floor began calling out for him to accept the DPM post.

“The feeling is that the party president must accept the post,” said Shafei.

The shock of having to team up with the enemy has subsided and Umno politicians are buying into the narrative that Ahmad Zahid saved the party from languishing on the opposition bench.

They also argue that the unity government will not be stable unless the Bagan Datuk MP gets a post.

The Umno rank-and-file dislikes DAP but their distrust of Perikatan Nasional is greater.

They see DAP as the lesser evil compared to Perikatan which they claimed “wants to kill us off” and is more deceitful or “kuat tipu”.

Politicians are such experts at justifying the means to an end.

The other DPM post is likely to go to Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof of Gabungan Parti Sarawak who was a senior minister in the previous government.

But what will it look like to have one of the DPMs trooping in and out of court?

Will it make Malaysia a laughing stock? Surely it will damage Pakatan’s anti-corruption reputation?

“Why blame us? Pakatan set the precedent when they appointed Lim Guan Eng as finance minister in 2018,” said Umno supreme council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Chik.

He pointed out that neither the Bar Council nor Bersih, vocal advocates against corruption, had objected to Lim’s appointment.

Lim’s corruption case involving his bungalow was then in progress and was cleared by then attorney general Tan Sri Tommy Thomas soon after.

Another precedent is Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin who is Sabah Deputy Chief Minister despite his corruption case.

The more important question is how Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim sees the situation. It could set back his administration even before it can take off.

But the thing is that Anwar would not be Prime Minister without Ahmad Zahid’s clout in bringing Umno on board.

The video of the two men greeting each other with a hug when Anwar was sworn in at the Palace showed how chummy and comfortable they were with each other.

It was a moment between “cikgu Anwar” and his “murid Ahmad Zahid” - the master and his student.

Some say Anwar is too shrewd to appoint someone this controversial as his deputy. At the same time, he needs Ahmad Zahid to control Umno or else his government will be on shaky ground.

He could hatch all sorts of mischief like what he did to Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

Anwar also appreciates how Ahmad Zahid led his coalition towards Pakatan after quelling internal attempts to stay neutral and to support Perikatan.

It is quite incredible that Ahmad Zahid may actually clip his deputy Mat Hasan in this final moment to the finishing line.

“It’s up to the discretion of the Prime Minister. Anwar will want to look at the bigger picture if he wants a stable government,” said Umno supreme council member Datuk Seri Sharkar Shamsudin.

Police investigate Hadi’s remark accusing PM Anwar of being ‘Israeli agent’

Police investigate Hadi’s remark accusing PM Anwar of being ‘Israeli agent’

PDRM secretary Datuk Noorsiah Saaduddin said the matter is being investigated under Section 504 and Section 500 of the Penal Code for defamation and intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of the peace respectively. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 5:44 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) today confirmed it has commenced investigations over PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang’s remarks portraying PKR president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as an agent of Zionist Israel.

PDRM secretary Datuk Noorsiah Saaduddin said the matter is being investigated under Section 504 and Section 500 of the Penal Code for defamation and intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of the peace respectively.


She also said the case is being probed under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act for improper use of network facilities.

“PDRM confirms it has received reports on the accusations by Abdul Hadi against prime minister Anwar as an agent of Zionist Israel.


“The investigation is being handled by Bukit Aman’s classified criminal investigation unit, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the CID’s Prosecution and Law Divisions,” she said in a statement here.


The allegation was made in a viral recording of a woman claiming that there was “Israeli influence” in Anwar’s appointment as prime minister.

In the recording, a woman is heard claiming that Baling MP Hassan Saad had told her after the general election that PAS had secured enough votes to form the government.

The woman claimed that Anwar had “contacted Israel and foreign powers” to interfere in the matter.

“An abundance of green reservoir for PAS to tap for sinister purposes”

“An abundance of green reservoir for PAS to tap for sinister purposes”

By Phlip Rodrigues





PAS is on the roll and the party of God might paint the whole country green in the not too distant future.


Its strong showing in the 15th General Election (GE15) signals the coming into reality a Malaysia that will be shaped by politicians who will behave more like clerics than statesmen.

Once dismissed as a political organisation that mainly operates in a narrow world, it has now burst out and captured a broad base of popular support.


PAS is nearing its cherished gaol to be the dominant party that can pull all the strings and listen to its own voice – and that of the other Voice from heaven – when it finally becomes the government of the day.

But PAS – as part of Perikatan Nasional (PN) – did not make it to Putrajaya. The prize was near but far and the party would have to wait for perhaps GE16 for another shot at the coveted trophy.

However, the green tide that “flooded” the state and parliamentary constituencies has given PAS the much-needed boost to spread its influence – and propagate its policies and teachings.

It was once thought that only the elderly are attracted to the political ideology of PAS but today even the young are drawn towards this orthodox and conservative doctrine.

Extreme brainwashing

The young minds probably find it hard to resist the magnetic pull of a party which combines fire and brimstones in its sermons with promises of rich rewards in the afterlife.

All those 18-year-old Malay youths who cast their votes for the first time in the recent GE15 would have given their support overwhelmingly to PAS because the party is seen as the stout defender of faith and race.

Young minds are supple and vulnerable and can easily be bent by politicians to fit a certain purpose. In the case of PAS, harnessing the energy of the youths will keep the green flag flying high for the foreseeable future.

Pic credit: Harakah Daily


But PAS must not indoctrinate youths with its toxic politics of hate, bigotry and intolerance. To do so will only perpetuate a culture of fear and mutual mistrust that can eventually tear the delicate social fabric apart.

If generations of youths are fed on a constant diet of prejudice, malice and fanaticism, Malaysia will never be a happy playground for all to live and prosper together.

PAS must turn the green shirts donned by youths into a vehicle for fostering goodwill and not use it as its battering ram to advance its political objectives.

If PAS president Tan Sri Hadi Awang wants to use his youthful supporters for some sinister ulterior motives, it would only create more problems for the country.

Backfire on Malaysia

If youths are fired up with religious fervour, the force unleashed by them could be frightening and even potentially destructive.

Hadi has at his disposal this large reservoir of latent energy that he could use anytime he chooses for any cause that he thinks could promote his and his party’s interest.

But when will he unleash the green shirts? It appears that Hadi has one target in mind, judging by his relentless diatribe against one particular ethnic political party.

He labels the party “communist” knowing jolly well that communism is certainly anathema to his religion. If he keeps on crying “communists”, he will be whipping up the emotion of his young supporters to a dangerously high pitch.

And when Hadi blames non-Muslims for being the major cause of corruption, he is widening his target in his holy war that the young blood ‘hounds’ would readily take up with devastating consequences.

The green dawn might herald good tidings to PAS but bad news to others who pin their hope on seeing a multiracial society grow from strength to strength under the benign influence of interfaith harmony rather than discord. – Nov 29, 2022

Zahid: A bitter pill but necessary – Tian Chua

Zahid: A bitter pill but necessary – Tian Chua


Umno president crucial in making unity government work, must have his day in court

Former PKR MP Chua Tian Chang, better known as Tian Chua, says that Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) has demonstrated his ability to consolidate Barisan Nasional into a unified stance to cooperate with Pakatan Harapan. – The Vibes file pic, November 29, 2022


THE dust of the general election frenzy finally settled. A stable grand coalition government is now in sight.


As the formation of the new government is in progress, there are some strong voices of objection to including those entangled in court cases in the cabinet.

Without beating around the bush, we know that the finger is pointing towards Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. On this topic, I will risk being very unpopular.

The following are my arguments:

Pakatan Harapan (PH) has chosen to be in coalition with Barisan Nasional (BN). When in partnership, the two blocs must accord each other with respect and accept parity. If BN parties were to nominate their chairman into the cabinet, it is not proper for PH to pick and choose who they want. That will be against the spirit of cooperation and mutual trust.

Zahid played a pivotal role in pulling the grand coalition together. Not forgetting there was strong rejection within BN for the coalition with PH at the initial stage. BN MPs were split over the choice of ruling partners. Zahid’s firm leadership swiftly ended the stalemate.

In order to govern effectively, PH and BN leaders have to build trust and confidence in each other. Undeniably, there is still lots of scepticism within BN, especially Umno. Zahid has demonstrated his ability to consolidate BN into a unified stance to cooperate with PH.

Furthermore, Zahid’s experience in government is a plus and he could complement the largely inexperienced PH ministers. He could also mediate between PH and the civil services and the conservative segments of the government. He could play a key role in stabilising the new coalition government.

Zahid could also be useful in linking up other component parties in the grand coalition, eg. GPS, GRS, etc.

What about the counter arguments on Zahid’s appointment?

The strongest argument seems to suggest that including Zahid in the cabinet would jeopardise the new government’s anti-graft efforts.

Firstly, there is no immunity from prosecution for any cabinet members. The trial proceedings should continue and Zahid must prove his innocence in court.

If Zahid is nominated to join the cabinet as the chairman of BN, it is not up to PH to reject. This is simply the principles of cooperation and collective responsibility. However, later when Umno elects another person as president and hence as BN chairman, the government should also duly comply with the new nominee.

The previous government barred court clusters from the cabinet, yet it continued the practice of direct negotiation, favouritism in procurement, etc. There were no effective reforms yet created a protracted tension between coalition parties.

Keeping those leaders with court cases out of the government doesn’t automatically bring about a cleaner government. If we want to be serious about corruption, we need genuine reforms to systematically overhaul our governing institutions. Unless words can be translated into action, no point trying to moralise the leadership.

To create a corruption-free society, it is not merely about government leaders upholding high moral standards or having a thrifty lifestyle. For me, the most important work for the new government is to embark on actual reforms to build transparent and efficient delivery by government functionaries.

This requires courage from the new coalition leaders. The exclusion of the so-called “court cluster” is a rather superficial public relations exercise. The new grand coalition should be brave enough to bite the bullet even if there might be some negative coverage. Take on the result-based anti-corruption work. The government must focus on real and hard reforms.

On this point, I wish to digress to the pledge of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim not receiving salary. Such an act is nothing but a self-projection of a moral image. However, a non-salaried prime minister does not translate into a clean government, nor does it boost investors’ confidence. On the contrary, the government by right should study how to commensurate ministers to avoid bribery.

In short, to undertake comprehensive reforms, we need a strong and effective government. Fortunately, PH enjoyed a good start. However, PH cannot afford a divergence with BN at this early stage. Cooperation of Anwar and Zahid is absolutely crucial. – The Vibes, November 29, 2022

The writer is a former PKR vice-president who stood as an independent for the Batu parliamentary seat in the recent general election

In Klang, ustaz slapped with rape, sexual assault charges

In Klang, ustaz slapped with rape, sexual assault charges

Ustaz Fathi Naim was charged with seven counts of raping and one count each for sexually assaulting and committing unnatural sex on a teenage girl, who is now 14-years-old.

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 2:40 PM MYT


KLANG, Nov 29 — A preacher pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court here today to nine charges of committing rape, sexual assault and unnatural sex on a teenager between June 2021 and last February.

Muhammad Fathi Na'im Mazlam (rpt Mazlam), 30, who is also known as Ustaz Fathi Naim, made the plea before Judge Syafeera Mohd Said.


The man, who has three wives and eight children, was charged with seven counts of raping and one count each for sexually assaulting and committing unnatural sex on a teenage girl, who is now 14-years-old.

The offences were allegedly committed in a Toyota Vellfire car in front of a surau, a parking area of Dataran Eco World and in a hotel in the vicinity of Bandar Puncak Alam near here between June 2021 and February this year.


The charges for rape and sexual assault were framed under Section 376 (1) of the Penal Code and Section 14 (a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, respectively, which provide imprisonment for up to 20 years and is also liable to whipping, if found guilty.


On the charge of committing unnatural sex, Muhammad Fathi Na'im was charged under Section 377CA of the Penal Code which carries imprisonment for up to 30 years and whipping, if found guilty.

He was allowed bail of RM40,000 with one surety for all the charges and also ordered to report himself at a police station once a month, as well as to not intimidate the victim and witnesses in the case.

The court fixed Jan 10 next year for mention. of the case.

The prosecution was represented by deputy public prosecutor Ku Hayati Ku Haron, who is also Selangor Prosecution director. She is assisted by deputy public prosecutors Aqharie Durranie and Nurul 'Izzati Mohamad.

Lawyer Samry Masri represented the accused. — Bernama

***

kt comments:

Early last year, 22 Feb 2021 exactly, I posted
MyGovernment says: Polygamy required by Islam due to husband’s “incredible sense of sexual desire” that the wife cannot fulfil, when and where we were advised by a furious Mukhriz that the MyGovernment website, which was a “single gateway to all government online services”, informed readers polygamy is required by Islam, among others, due to the husband’s “incredible sense of sexual desire” that the wife cannot fulfil.

Mukhriz criticised such [salacious?] info on polygamy on a government portal, saying it was among the reasons why Islam has been so misunderstood.

Perhaps the info on "the husband's incredible sense of sexual desire" was not incorrect after all, wakakaka.

Earlier, seven years ago, in March 2015, I reminded my readers that the then-Mufti of Kelantan, Mohamad Shukri Mohamad, had in 2006 (then as the deputy mufti of Kelantan) told Berita Harian that wives would be deemed to be unjust and abusive if they cannot satisfy their husbands' sexual needs.

Wakakaka, it seems it's always women who were/are to be blamed and bullied, even when used as a sexual tool.

Wakakaka again, abusive in sexual needs?


In his (note ‘his’ and not 'the') most 'brilliant' exposition of Islamic doctrines, he asserted that in a marriage, it's not always the wives who were abused as it could also happen to the husbands. He advised that Islamic laws protect both women and men.

He warned: "Thus wives who do not provide proper care for their husbands, including not fulfilling their sexual needs, can be considered as being unjust and abusive towards their husbands."

"These women can be charged under Section 128 (1) of the Kelantan Islamic Law Enactment 2002, which provides for a fine of RM 1,000 or jail of up to six months or both upon conviction."

But he skipped the details, yup, by neglecting to elaborate on how the courts would determine any husband’s claims of his wife failing to satisfy his sexual needs as per, wakakaka, Section 128 (1) of the Kelantan Islamic Law Enactment 2002.

As we know, some husbands may have excessive sexual needs, so the poor wives could be required to perform to super-human standards, you know, 'above and beyond' the call of duty.

Dahleeng, use a Kryptonite to 'soften' his super sex needs, wakakaka


If their wives cannot satisfy their super sexual needs, would those poor wives be still deemed as unjust and abusive as per, wakakaka again, Section 128 (1) of the Kelantan Islamic Law Enactment 2002 by this mufti?

But truthfully, I would be very interested in how he would impartially gauge that a husband has attained sexual satisfaction in his legal act of consummation.

I've been informed though, that in the West it's supposedly measured by how loud the man (or woman) screams 'OH GOD', wakakaka again.



Poor Malaysian women.

And it seems SEX SEX SEX would always be in the picture if you were to read Malaysiakini's K'tan deputy MB admits error on 'unnatural sex'.

We gather from Kelantan's Deputy MB Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah that: "Some scholars argue that since wives belong to their husbands, their husbands can do as they like."

The wife belongs to the husband and he can do as he likes? Wow. Incidentally, he was referring to anal sex between the married couple.

And he added that this wife-as-a-chattel (mere property) comes from the differences of interpretation of the Quranic verse which states that "wives are tilths for their husbands", and therefore, they can approach their wives in any sexual manner they choose.

[kt note: tilth = cultivated land]

And on that, let me remind wives that the Mufti of Kelantan, Mohamad Shukri Mohamad had already warned that "... wives who do not provide proper care for their husbands, including not fulfilling their sexual needs, can be considered as being unjust and abusive towards their husbands."

"These women can be charged under Section 128 (1) of the Kelantan Islamic Law Enactment 2002, which provides for a fine of RM 1,000 or jail of up to six months or both upon conviction."

Yes, leave it to PAS - they have all angles covered, sexual angles, that is, wakakaka.

Cut subsidies? Return of GST? Anwar set to face ‘unpopular’ economic decisions

Cut subsidies? Return of GST? Anwar set to face ‘unpopular’ economic decisions

He takes over nation’s reins at time of great instability, public frustration

One challenge for Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s government will come in the form of increasing its tax revenue, which could see the reintroduction of the goods and services tax. – ALIF OMAR/The Vibes pic, November 29, 2022


KUALA LUMPUR – Freshly installed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has his work cut out for him as he takes over the reins of the nation at a time of great economic instability and an increasingly frustrated citizenry.


With Parliament set to have its first sitting on December 19 amid the backdrop of a looming global recession, economists are pointing out that the new prime minister may have to put in place “unpopular” economic policies for the immediate and long-term benefits of the people.

According to economist Yeah Kim Leng, the Pakatan Harapan leader should ready himself to ultimately rationalise subsidies by introducing more targeted subsidies, a move that would greatly reduce the government’s fiscal burden.

“(Anwar) will have to strike a balance between gradually rolling back subsidies and avoiding a spike in the price of goods and our inflation rate,” the Sunway University Business School’s professor of economics told The Vibes.

Recommending that the subsidy cutbacks be done gradually, rather than an all-out removal at one go, Yeah stressed that by spending government funds more productively, the nation stands to derive greater economic good.

“From an economic perspective, supporting subsidies for all (instead of targeted subsidies) is a misallocation of resources,” he said.

“Rationalising subsidies could potentially be a politically unpopular move, but citizens must be educated to see that while the reform might inflict short-term pain, they are sure to enjoy long-term benefits through improved government spending.”

According to economist Yeah Kim Leng (pic), Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should ready himself to ultimately rationalise subsidies by introducing more targeted subsidies, a move that would greatly reduce the government’s fiscal burden. – Bernama pic, November 29, 2022


Yeah’s assertion that targeted fuel subsidies will most impact the government’s endeavour to reduce its fiscal burden is backed by outgoing finance minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tangku Abdul Aziz, who stated in May that petrol subsidies alone are likely to reach a whopping RM30 billion amid a spike in crude oil prices.

Tengku Zafrul had also said that Malaysia is expected to fork out higher subsidies to the tune of RM71 billion this year, doubling the RM30 billion dished out last year.

Compromise within unity government on GST

Besides that, Yeah said that another challenge for Anwar’s government will come in the form of increasing its tax revenue, which could see the reintroduction of the goods and services tax (GST).

While the PH administration had previously zero-rated the tax from its original 6% in 2018 in favour of the current sales and services tax (SST), Yeah did not deny the “unlikely” possibility of the GST charges being reactivated since Putrajaya is now ruled by a unity government.


Because of the unity government, there could be compromises among some coalitions to push the envelope in terms of policy conversion (where it is) jointly agreed that the GST should be implemented again in a way where inflation spikes can be avoided,” he said.

However, he stressed that with an upcoming global recession, attention should instead be focused on more urgent economic measures, such as the broadening of the SST base to increase the overall revenue derived by the government through direct and indirect taxes.

“The economy for the remainder of this year is expected to perform well, but with a worldwide economic downturn expected to take place next year, it would be easier to implement changes in our tax regime once inflation has been stabilised,” he said.

“Any major changes (to our taxation system) that will cause a dampening effect on the economy should be put on hold until we are able to create greater feasibility in our economic conditions.”

The SST generated RM26.7 billion in revenue in 2020 and RM27.9 billion in 2021, while the GST, an unpopular consumption tax introduced in 2015, garnered RM44 billion in 2017.

The GST is a consumption tax and levied on most transactions in the production process – applying to about 60% of goods and services under the consumer price index compared to 38% under the SST.

Barjoyai Bardai believes that if the goods and services tax is revived, it would be far-fetched to expect it to happen anytime soon. – The Vibes pic, November 29, 2022


Thinking behind NEP must be ‘liberalised’

Yeah’s views were echoed by Universiti Tun Abdul Razak academic Barjoyai Bardai, who opined that if the GST is revived, it would be far-fetched to expect it to happen anytime soon.

“(Anwar) is under pressure to bring back the GST but this will go against the philosophy of PH. (If the GST is brought back), it might only happen next year,” he said.

“The government now must think of a tax system that can generate revenue for the government. If it is able to cut government expenditure across the board, then they might not even need to introduce a new tax (system),” he said.

Similarly, he also highlighted that subsidy rationalisation is “an important agenda that should be done painstakingly” as the government attempts to save money but also take care of the people.

Meanwhile, veteran economist Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam said that in order for the economy to perform fairly and properly towards all Malaysians, regardless of race, the New Economic Policy (NEP) should be revised, or even replaced.


(The NEP) is restricting growth and keeping prices high because of inadequate competition, while providing a sense of disunity and alienation. The whole thinking behind the NEP has to be liberalised,” he said.

“There must be some radical reformative thinking in the new government, otherwise we will just be doing more of the same (policies) which will not be helpful for economic progress.”

Calls for the NEP to be reviewed have long been issued, including by fellow long-time economist Tan Sri Kamal Salih who called for the abolishment of the NEP and to replace it with a needs-based policy to overhaul the economy.

On the other hand, senior fellow at the Iseas-Yusof Ishak Institute and economist Lee Hwok Aun asserted that the government should find new ways to carry out universalist and group-targeted policies instead of trying to completely replace the “race-based” NEP.

Noting that a balance should be struck between race-based policies and need-based policies, he said the NEP’s two prongs – poverty eradication irrespective of race, and restructuring society based on principles of equality and fairness – are still relevant, but the country’s overall perspective and views need to be modified and updated. – The Vibes, November 29, 2022

Pakatan to campaign along with BN in Tioman to protect unity govt in Pahang, says Amanah sec-gen

Pakatan to campaign along with BN in Tioman to protect unity govt in Pahang, says Amanah sec-gen

Amanah secretary-general Datuk Mohd Hatta Md Ramli says Pakatan Harapan will campaign together with Barisan Nasional for the Tioman state seat. ― Picture by Firdaus Latif

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 1:08 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Datuk Mohd Hatta Md Ramli today said Pakatan Harapan (PH) will campaign together with Barisan Nasional (BN) for the Tioman state seat, following the former's backing for the latter to form the state government.


The Parti Amanah Negara secretary-general called it a necessary move at a time when racial flames are being fanned by Perikatan Nasional's (PN) in the election.

“Amanah views the state election in Tioman division N.42 as a clash between the new Pahang state government and racial and religious extremists, which needs to be dealt with seriously.


“In that spirit, Amanah sees the need to form unity among the state government components in opposing the PN candidate,” he said in a statement, referring to PN candidate Nor Idayu Hashim.


“In order for the candidate representing this unity government to win, the PH election machinery will move together in every BN campaign,” he said.

BN's candidate Datuk Seri Mohd Johari Hussain had earlier welcomed PH's candidate Mohd Fadzli Mohd Ramly’s willingness to step aside for him to contest for the state seat.

Polling for the Tioman state seat for the 15th general election was postponed to December 7 following the death of PN candidate Md. Yunus Ramli a few hours before polling began on November 19.

This saw a hung Pahang state assembly for the first time as no party obtained a simple majority of 22 seats to form the state government.

But yesterday, Pahang BN reached an agreement to form the state government with PH.

Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, who is also Pahang BN chairman, has been reappointed as the mentri besar.

PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang had last night asserted that PN must win the Tioman seat in order to overhaul the PH-BN Pahang state government.

Other candidates vying to win the Tioman state seat are Gerakan Tanah Air's Osman A. Bakar, and independent candidate Sulaiman Bakar.

PKR's Fahmi calls for Perikatan's Padang Serai candidate to be stripped of datukship for questioning Agong's decision over unity govt

PKR's Fahmi calls for Perikatan's Padang Serai candidate to be stripped of datukship for questioning Agong's decision over unity govt

Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil (pic) said Azman's comments recently that the current government is an adulterous one is slanderous and went against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's decree for a unity government to be formed. ― Picture by Yusof Mat Isa

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 1:04 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil today suggested that Perikatan Nasional's (PN) Padang Serai candidate Datuk Azman Nasrudin should relinquish his “Datuk” title if he is unhappy with the current government.


He said Azman's comments recently that the current government is an adulterous one is slanderous and went against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's decree for a unity government to be formed.

The Malay term used by the “Datuk” was “kerajaan zina” (adulterous govt).


“Azman has acted disrespectfully with his comments,” Fahmi said in a brief TikTok video.


“If you disagree with this unity government and are questioning the process and wishes of the Agong then return the 'title' that you received from the Sultan of Kedah because he was present for discussions on the appointment of Malaysia's 10th prime minister.

“So Azman, stop using this ‘Datuk’ title and you should be investigated,” he said in his video posted today.

The Padang Serai parliamentary seat was previously held by M. Karupaiya when he secured an 8,813 majority win, beating MCA candidate Dr Leong Yong Kong and Mohammad Sobri Osman from PAS during GE14.

Karupaiya, nominated again to defend the seat in GE15 but was admitted to the Kulim Hospital on Nov 14 after he collapsed while campaigning. He died two days later due to a heart attack.

Azman is up against Sofee Razak (Pakatan Harapan), Datuk C. Sivaraj (Barisan Nasional), Hamzah Abdul Rahman (Pejuang); Bakri Hashim (Warisan) and Sreanandha Rao (Independent) in a six cornered fight.

Zahid: Post-GE15 collab with Pakatan doesn’t mean abandoning Umno principles but way forward for centrist, moderate politics

Zahid: Post-GE15 collab with Pakatan doesn’t mean abandoning Umno principles but way forward for centrist, moderate politics

Ahmad Zahid said the Barisan-Pakatan alliance is pioneering a centrist, moderate and mature brand of politics. — Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 11:42 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today called on politicians to close ranks and move on after the polarising 15th general election to restore Malaysia’s economy and return the nation to moderation.

He said the openness of Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Rakyat (PH) to form coalition governments in Perak and Pahang shows how the federal government can also unite strategically without abandoning their respective party principles, especially Umno’s.


“This strategic co-operation absolutely does not abandon Umno’s principles. This is based on two things.

“Firstly, the rejection of any co-operation with PKR, DAP, and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) was only for the 15th general election and not post-election.


“Secondly, this co-operation is based on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s decree for the formation of a unity government,” he said in a Facebook post this morning.


“This openness reflects how BN-PH is pioneering a centrist, moderate and mature politics,” he added.

He stressed on the need to put aside past differences so Umno too can move forward and rid itself of the filth that has been thrown at it.

“We need to close ranks after the election. This is necessary to sweep away all the dirt that has been thrown at Umno and to ensure that it is clean both inside and out,” he said.

The Bagan Datuk MP said that going along with the collaboration will not remove Umno’s core identity.

“The party remains unchanged in its objective to fight for the Malays and Muslims to empower the progress of the nation.

“Umno still defends the party's policy to adopt a moderate, centric and progressive attitude in dealing with change,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid also said that Umno rejects parties that use religion to score political points.

Instead, he said that Umno responsibly uses the politics to preserve matters related to the interests of the Malay-Muslim race as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

PH won the most seats of any coalition in the November 19 general election, but was still short of the 112 needed for a simple majority to form the government on its own.

After several days of negotiation, it finally reached an agreement for a coalition federal government with BN and Gabungan Parti Sarawak, with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah joining later.

Similarly, in the three states that held concurrent state and national elections, BN and PH reached an agreement to collaborate with each other.

The Perikatan Nasional coalition won sufficient seats to take control of the Perlis government.

Win Tioman state seat to overhaul Pahang govt, Hadi tells Perikatan

Win Tioman state seat to overhaul Pahang govt, Hadi tells Perikatan

PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang (centre) is pictured at the Yayasan Selangor building in Petaling Jaya October 27, 2022. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 9:47 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Claiming democracy is not being “respected”, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition should overhaul the Pahang government if it wins the deferred Tioman state seat election on December 7.

Abdul Hadi said that the party that has the majority of the seats should be selected to lead the state even in a minority government, as it is part of the democratic process.


“If we win the Tioman seat then we have to overhaul. Because right now democracy is not respected. If we follow the majority, then must choose the party with the majority.

“Even in a minority government, the party with the majority should be selected. But the one chosen is Pakatan Harapan. This is not the right democratic concept,” he said in a press conference after a ceramah at Sriti Darul Ummah Mentara in Pianggu, Pahang last night.


The press conference was aired on his Facebook.


Abdul Hadi was also asked if the collaboration between Barisan Nasional (BN) and PH in forming the state government will influence Tioman voters’ decision.

To this, he said he hoped they would respect the majority.

“This one we will have to wait and see. This is a minority government. We hope the people will respect the majority,” he added without elaborating.

PN won 17 Pahang state assembly seats, while BN won 16 state seats and PH won eight seats in the November 19 election.

However, polling for the Tioman state seat was postponed following the death of the PN candidate Md Yunus Ramli, 61, at 3.30am on November 19, believed to be due to a heart attack.

This saw a hung Pahang state assembly for the first time as no party obtained a simple majority of 22 seats to form the state government.

But yesterday, Pahang BN reached an agreement to form the state government with PH.

Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, who is also Pahang BN chairman, has been reappointed as the mentri besar.

Hishammuddin, Ismail ‘not likely’ to be in Anwar’s Cabinet

Hishammuddin, Ismail ‘not likely’ to be in Anwar’s Cabinet

Hishammuddin Hussein and Ismail Sabri Yaakob of Umno have said they do not want to work with Pakatan Harapan. (Facebook pic)


PETALING JAYA: Anwar Ibrahim’s new Cabinet is not likely to include former minister Hishammuddin Hussein and former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob of Umno, says a source in the know.

Their inclusion in the Cabinet would be a “great surprise” even though Ismail and Hishammuddin, ministers since 2008 and 1998 respectively, have more experience in government than most Barisan Nasional MPs.


The two men were widely-reported to have taken a stance against Umno working with Pakatan Harapan, “so it will be a great surprise if they are appointed to the Cabinet”.

“I’m sure even the most hardcore Anwar supporter would find it perplexing if he appointed Hishammuddin and Ismail,” said the source, who declined to be named.

Hishammuddin was senior minister for security and defence minister in the government headed by Ismail as prime minister.

During the political stalemate in the aftermath of the general election, Hishammuddin said he held firm to his stance against cooperation with PH.

He said on Nov 21 that he would not change his stance and would rather be sacked from Umno by those who had earlier adopted the principle of “No Anwar, No DAP”.

The next day, Ismail also said he would not work with PH under any circumstances, following a BN announcement to form the parliamentary opposition and not support either of the two coalitions contending for power.

BN subsequently agreed to support a unity government to be formed by PH chairman Anwar Ibrahim, who was appointed prime minister on Thursday.

Another question mark lies over the 10 MPs from Barisan Nasional who had initially supported Perikatan Nasional’s bid to form the government.

It is understood the 10 MPs have claimed they were misled into supporting PN by a senior Umno leader. “So they (10 MPs) could still make the cut. But the leader who misled them should take responsibility,” the source said.

Anwar is expected to name his Cabinet within days. He leads a unity government comprising PH, BN, Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, with support from MPs from Muda, Warisan, Parti Bangsa Malaysia and independents.

British PM Sunak says UK’s ‘golden era’ with China is over

British PM Sunak says UK’s ‘golden era’ with China is over

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak looks on during the annual Lord Mayor's Banquet at Guildhall, in London November 28, 2022. — Reuters pic

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 7:32 AM MYT


LONDON, Nov 29 — British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said yesterday that the so-called “golden era” of relations with China was over, saying Beijing’s systemic challenge to Britain’s interests and values was growing more acute.

In his first major foreign policy speech, Sunak said Britain’s approach to China needed to evolve and Beijing was “consciously competing for global influence using all the levers of state power”.


“Let’s be clear, the so-called ‘golden era’ is over, along with the naive idea that trade would lead to social and political reform,” Sunak said in London’s financial district, a reference to former finance minister George Osborne’s description of Sino-British ties in 2015.

Some in Sunak’s Conservative Party have been critical of Sunak, regarding him as less hawkish on China than his predecessor Liz Truss. Last year when he was finance minister, he called for a nuanced strategy on China to balance human rights concerns while expanding economic ties.


However, a planned meeting between Sunak and China’s President Xi Jinping at this month’s G20 summit in Bali fell through and last week London banned Chinese-made security cameras from sensitive government buildings.


“We recognise China poses a systemic challenge to our values and interests, a challenge that grows more acute as it moves towards even greater authoritarianism,” he said, referring to the BBC statement that one of its journalists had been assaulted by Chinese police.

“Of course, we cannot simply ignore China’s significance in world affairs — to global economic stability or issues like climate change. The US, Canada, Australia, Japan and many others understand this too.”

Sunak said under his leadership Britain would not choose the “status quo” and would confront international competitors “not with grand rhetoric but with robust pragmatism”.

On Ukraine, he said the government would maintain military aid to Kyiv next year, maintaining the strong support offered by former prime ministers Boris Johnson and Truss.

“So be in no doubt, we will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. We will maintain or increase our military aid next year. And we will provide new support for air defence,” he said.

In September, Britain said it was the second-largest military donor to Ukraine after the United States, providing £2.3 billion (RM12.3 billion) of aid this year.

Sunak said Britain needed to take the same long-term approach as its adversaries and competitors such as Russia and China.

“In the face of these challenges, short-termism or wishful thinking will not suffice. We can’t depend on Cold War arguments or approaches, or mere sentimentality about the past,” he said. — Reuters

Report: PKR’s Aminuddin Harun willing to step down as Negri MB to join Anwar’s Cabinet

Report: PKR’s Aminuddin Harun willing to step down as Negri MB to join Anwar’s Cabinet

Aminuddin (right) said he would not be discouraged even if he wasn’t selected for the new Cabinet. — Bernama pic

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 8:47 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Negri Sembilan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun will relinquish his state post if Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim selects him to be part of the new federal government.

But the PKR vice-president added that he will not be discouraged if he wasn’t selected for the new Cabinet, Sinar Harian reported today.


“I will leave it to the president, but it is not certain that the president will give me a post because we know the size of the Cabinet will be reduced.

“I will not feel discouraged and I want this country to continue to be led so that it is better... that's all,” Aminuddin was quoted as saying during a thanksgiving ceremony in conjunction with Anwar's appointment as prime minister at Sungai Seluang.


Anwar is also PKR president and chairman of the Pakatan Harapan coalition.


Asked if there were anyone else to replace him as Negri Sembilan MB if he were chosen to be a minister, Aminuddin reportedly said “Yes”.

He said that anyone can be a mentri besar or minister, but added that what mattered the most is the honesty in serving the position.

Aminuddin won the Port Dickson parliamentary seat in the November 19 general election that was previously held by Anwar in the 14th general election.

The PM is also Tambun MP.

Aminuddin obtained 42,013 votes with a majority of 23,601 votes, defeating Barisan Nasional candidate Datuk P. Kalamananthan (18,412 votes) and Perikatan Nasional candidate Rafiei Mustapha (18,235 votes).

Analysts: PM Anwar will need guile and charm to keep cloak-and-dagger moves at bay

Analysts: PM Anwar will need guile and charm to keep cloak-and-dagger moves at bay

While saying Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s planned vote of confidence would dispel doubts about his support among lawmakers, the analysts insisted that this was no guarantee Pakatan Harapan’s newfound allies would stay the course for the full term. — Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 7:00 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will need to tap all his reputed political shrewdness and charm to hold together the political parties making up his national unity government, said analysts.

While saying Anwar’s planned vote of confidence would dispel doubt about his support among lawmakers, the analysts insisted that this was no guarantee Pakatan Harapan’s newfound allies would stay the course for the full term.


Political analysts Professor Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid said Anwar would need to find ways to accommodate Barisan Nasional on his side of the aisle and do so without compromising himself and the PH coalition.

“For example, while his tough stance towards corruption is well chronicled, there still lies the potential danger of compromising sublime principles in exchange for parliamentary support as the realities of governing a coalition-based administration and the trappings of power set in.


“In Anwar’s rhetoric, he himself had often caricatured his Umno rivals as robbers, bandits, et cetera. Will he continue to do so now?” Ahmad Fauzi said.


As for PH, he said it would likely need to consider Umno’s Malay nationalist ideology when prioritising reforms to attempt, saying those of common interest should be the baby steps in their unlikely cooperation.

PH should also avoid more controversial aims from its previous time in power, such as recognising the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) or ratifying the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD).

Singapore Institute of International Affairs senior fellow Oh Ei Sun said Anwar would need to actively keep BN, Gabungan Parti Sarawak, and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah lawmakers content as their coalitions were not locked to his coalition government.

“There is frankly nothing systematic that could prevent such political moves. Anwar could announce his Cabinet list soonest, composed of the leaders of his coalition parties’ leaders, in order to appease them,” he said when contacted.

While the coalitions backing PH chairman Anwar to be the prime minister did so en bloc, the support among their elected representatives was not universal.

Some, such as Umno’s Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, initially said he would rather be expelled than to cooperate with PH while former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob also suggested he would have preferred to work with Perikatan Nasional.

PH won 82 seats in the 15th general election while second-placed PN took 73, but both were short of the 112 needed for a simple majority victory on their own.

The pockets of discontent within BN, in particular, triggered rumours of a conspiracy to oust the PH government when some of the coalition’s leaders were seen gathering at a golf resort in Petaling Jaya, eliciting fears of another “Sheraton Move”.

Senior Fellow at Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research Azmi Hassan said one way to prevent such rumours was to formalise the cooperation between PH, BN, GPS, and GRS in a legally-binding agreement.

“It needs to be in black and white, on paper; if not, any scenario where leaders are mentioned meeting in various places will be construed as them trying to create a new political bloc,” Amzi said when contacted.

“We could follow Canada’s example when they gave Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a few years to manage the minority government to ensure the country is run smoothly. So, a similar agreement here could work and until that time they feel like pulling out they can do so.”

Research fellow from the Institute of Malaysian & International Studies (IKMAS) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Muhamad Azwan Abd Rahman, said Anwar must waste no time in bringing his coalition partners into his new administration.

“The prime minister also urgently needs to form and announce an inclusive Cabinet before the vote of confidence scheduled on December 19 and to appoint a deputy prime minister who represents the importance of the bloc and regionality.

“It must be announced quickly to strengthen the coalition consensus and create a well-bonded and coherence among core leaders and followers in this coalition government.”

Decisive action in these three areas will “silence” further rumours of conspiracies and allow the Anwar administration to concentrate on governing effectively, he said.

With the support of the other coalitions aside from PN, Anwar has a majority of 140 seats out of the 222 in Parliament.

Following days of negotiations after GE15, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah announced Anwar as the next prime minister at the head of a national unity government.

Anwar had left the door open for PN to also join this national unity government but PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin declined and said his coalition preferred to serve as the Opposition in order to be a check-and-balance to the new administration.

PM told cops to probe ‘Israeli agent’ claim, says Fahmi

PM told cops to probe ‘Israeli agent’ claim, says Fahmi

PKR information chief Fahmi Fadzil said the Pakatan Harapan presidential council had discussed the flood problem and the rising cost of living.


PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has directed the police to take action against anyone spreading slanderous statements against him such as claims that he is an Israeli agent, says PKR information chief Fahmi Fadzil.

“Anwar has no intention to take action against those who criticise (him or Pakatan Harapan), but we draw the line at slander and accusations of being an Israeli agent,” Fahmi said


“He has asked the police to take action,” he told reporters after a PH presidential council meeting at the PKR headquarters here.

In a recording of a ceramah during the general election campaign, Muhyiddin Yassin claimed a group of Jews wanted PH to win the elections, and alleged that PH was working with Jews and Christians to “colonise” the country.


In the recording which has gone viral, the Perikatan Nasional chairman also claimed that there were Malays attending church services in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya on Sundays.

Anwar had dismissed this, saying Muhyiddin had run out of things to play up for the polls.

Muhyiddin had also drawn flak from the Council of Churches of Malaysia and Christian Federation of Malaysia, who have urged the authorities to take action against the former prime minister.

Fahmi also said the PH presidential council did not discuss the formation of Anwar’s Cabinet in today’s meeting. He said discussions focused on facing the risk of floods and tackling the rise in cost of living.

PM Anwar says will name Cabinet soon, but unity government requires consultation

PM Anwar says will name Cabinet soon, but unity government requires consultation

Prime Minister and Pakatan Harapan chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim speaks to the media after chairing a PH presidential council meeting at its headquarters in Petaling Jaya, November 28,2022. — Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri

Monday, 28 Nov 2022 6:44 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 28 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he must consult his coalition’s partners in order to decide the composition of his Cabinet, but added that one would be named as early as possible.

Speaking to reporters after chairing a Pakatan Harapan presidential council meeting today, Anwar said all parties were entitled to provide their views on who should be on his Cabinet, but it was ultimately his decision.


“But as I said, this is not a normal situation. The national unity government involves many parties, and before I make my decision, I must listen to all views.

“And another problem is that the Cabinet is to be reduced in size. Previously, 50 (ministers) is OK 60 is OK, 70 is OK, and if that still isn’t enough, there are special envoys,” he said.


Anwar stressed that he was unwilling to go down the same route, which consequently required him to be cautious with his Cabinet appointments.


Previously, Anwar warned political leaders not to expect Cabinet roles as “reward” for their support and loyalty, as he planned to restrict its members to the smallest number necessary to avoid increasing the government’s cost.

On suggestions that he should exclude Umno’s so-called “court cluster” from his Cabinet, Anwar said these were among views being considered but stressed on the presumption of innocence in ongoing trials.