Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. - KK SHAM/The Star
SHAH ALAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says that no country can achieve development and stability if there are constant clashes over race and religion.
Speaking at the 18th DAP Congress at the Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) in Section 15, here, on Sunday (March 16), Anwar said that the approach of the Government, together with DAP, is to elevate the nation's dignity and strengthen institutions, governance and democratic accountability.
He added that the government requires the support and participation of communities from various races and cannot merely follow the pace set by other countries.
"Is there any country that can progress and remain stable, while conflicts and clashes between races and religions persist? There are none. But we do have a choice.
"I would like to thank my friends in DAP for making the same choice as we did in PKR, Amanah and now Upko. Additionally, our friends in Umno, GPS, and GRS are now offering support based on the principle that the country must stay firmly on the right track," he said.
Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said DAP is often labelled as a racist party, particularly by the Opposition. However, he pointed out that some seem to have forgotten that they previously worked with DAP without raising the issue.
He said that the Opposition is pushing a narrative to exploit racial issues and claiming that the unity government is weak because it is influenced by certain parties.
"Don't they know? In the past, under Pakatan Rakyat, for almost 15 years, PAS worked alongside us in PH under Tun Mahathir. The people who are now joining Bersatu used to sit at the table with DAP leadership.
"Are their remarks true? No. They are the words of desperate groups," said Anwar.
Anwar further said that the Opposition has never presented any new proposals or policies but instead chose to instil fear among Malays about the perceived rise of the Chinese community, particularly through DAP.
Anwar also said that DAP's support for the government is not based on individuals but on the principles and reforms they advocate.
He also expressed his gratitude to the DAP leadership, including veterans such as Lim Kit Siang, Chen Man Hing, Karpal Singh and P. Patto, who played key roles in bringing the people's voices and struggles to the forefront.
"Soon after independence, there were of course voices expressing concern within the government about issues such as corruption, poverty and inequality. However, DAP emerged as a true leader, with outspoken, prominent and courageous leaders.
They had to endure oppression under draconian laws while advocating for democracy, transparency and exposing corruption involving political leaders of the time.
"I salute them because they created and began this mass education movement for Malaysians, particularly the youth, on what good governance is all about," he said. – Bernama
