Having a light moment: Anwar chatting with (from left) Bernama chief executive officer Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Dr Wan Azizah and Ng. — Bernama
PUTRAJAYA: While actions should be taken over the KK Super Mart’s socks controversy, the country should not stay stuck in the issue, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said leaders and the public should not drag the issue further and instead shift their focus to other more important matters.
“My stance is clear. There are police reports, some lines were crossed and there must be action taken. But after following the law, we move on. Why should we be stuck with such issues?
“Don’t insult any religion, what more Islam. But we shouldn’t continue discussion about this as if this is a massive disaster in the country. Take firm action and move on,” he told reporters at Seri Perdana here yesterday.
Asked about the issue being discussed even by leaders within his government, Anwar said he accepts views from all sides but reminded leaders not to go overboard.
“Within the (Madani) political framework that is free and democratic, we can’t follow the walaq system (total loyalty system).
“In some parties where walaq exists, it doesn’t allow freedom of thought but we do.
“But, my advice is, don’t go overboard by being narrow minded. Don’t punish excessively. Don’t torture people more than what’s accepted,” he added at a buka puasa event for media practitioners.
Anwar was welcomed by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil and spent some time mingling with the guests, which included 200 members from the print, electronic and online media from local media agencies, local and international media clubs and media veterans.
At the event held in Seri Perdana last night, Anwar presented financial assistance to 20 media personnel.
Also present were Anwar’s wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Star Media Group chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng and Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.
