PETALING JAYA: The focus of the unity government will be ensuring the well-being of the people and that no states will be sidelined, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In his congratulatory speech to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah at Istana Negara yesterday in conjunction with His Majesty’s official birthday, Anwar credited the idea of the unity government to the wisdom of the King.
He also said that economic recovery, as well as improving public amenities such as schools and clinics, would take top priority during his term as Prime Minister.
He added that the government would ensure harmony and political stability prevailed.
On behalf of the unity government and country, he extended his best wishes to the King, Queen and the entire royal family that they would be blessed with grace, guidance, health and prosperity.
“On behalf of the government and the people, I congratulate Your Highness in conjunction with your official birthday.
“The King is akin to a tree and this institution must be cared for well. The government will not compromise or allow the monarchy system to be mocked or criticised in the name of freedom.
“The government will defend and ensure that appropriate action is taken against anyone threatening the monarchy system and the supremacy of the Federal Constitution.
“The unity government, which was initiated by Your Highness’ wisdom, has strengthened togetherness and created political stability, which led to economic growth, confidence of domestic and foreign investors, as well as put in place sustainable governance and guaranteed the future well-being of the people.
“On behalf of the Cabinet, I repeat my determination to work as a team and further strengthen the consensus so that there are no cluster of states which are marginalised or left out.
“Among our focus is the repair of schools and clinics, leaking quarters of civil servants and national security forces,” Anwar said.
He added that the Madani concept under Budget 2023 would focus on food security, the digital economy, the role of small and medium enterprises, and putting a stop to hardcore poverty.
“The wise economic efforts by the Cabinet, civil service and the private sector has led to a Gross Domestic Product growth of 5.6%.
“A total of RM71.4bil were attained in the first quarter of 2023,” said Anwar.
He pointed out that the National Industrial Plan would be launched in August, with the mid-term (review of the) 12th Malaysia Plan in September and Budget 2024 in October.
“All these will be carried out while Your Highness is still on the throne.
“Besides efforts on economic recovery, the unity government will also focus on handling the cost of living, inflated prices and ensuring food security.
“A few approaches for the people such as Payung Rahmah, Aidilfitri Carnival, entrepreneurship and social innovations such as the People’s Income Initiative, were received well by the public,” he said.
This is the fifth time the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah have celebrated the King’s official birthday since he ascended the throne.
