PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extends his appreciation to all parties who ensured that the 'Turun Anwar' rally in Kuala Lumpur proceeded smoothly and without incident.
In a Facebook post Saturday (July 26), the Prime Minister said criticism and differences of opinion should not be seen through the lens of hostility, instead it should "continue to sprout and lushly blossom into the pulse of a mature, progressive and sovereign nation."
"I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all security team officers; from police, firefighters, medical teams and volunteers who have served with great agility, discipline and dedication to ensure public safety and order.
"To my brothers and sisters present — whether voicing their views, expressing solidarity, or coming from afar — I wish you a safe return to your respective destinations. May your journey be smooth and protected," Anwar said in his Facebook post.
He added that as the Prime Minister, he consistently adhered to democratic principles including freedom of speech.
"We have encouraged the same principle through the Prime Minister's Question Time (PMQT) in Parliament where MPs are free to ask me directly any question. Please continue to urge your MPs to to attend and actively participate in all sessions, especially PMQT sessions.
"I invite all to continue dialogue and discourse, finding meeting points, cultivating and building this country together, not only on the streets, but rising up, reaching out and mastering new grounds so that the country can move forward steadily and energetically," he said.
Anwar also invited rally participants to return to Kuala Lumpur in the future, especially to visit the various historic landmarks around the capital, including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Dataran Merdeka.
He added that the building was currently undergoing conservation work.
