JOHOR BARU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim calls on Malaysians to set aside racial divisions and work together “as brothers and sisters".
Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said the country’s future depends on mutual respect rather than politics driven by hatred.
“Why can’t we negotiate as friends, as brothers and sisters, instead of allowing race and religion to divide the nation. Why must there be so much hatred?
“Malaysia could only progress if its people work together regardless of race or religion,” he said during the "Yok! Merahkan Johor! Undi Harapan" programme at the Taman Pelangi Indah public field here on Thursday (July 9) night.
The Prime Minister also refuted allegations claiming that the Madani government only prioritises the Chinese community, explaining that every policy introduced takes into account the interests of the nation as a whole.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, dismissed allegations that government assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) was racial in nature, emphasising instead that the sector is the main backbone of the national economy.
"When we help SMEs, some say it is only for the Chinese, but these SMEs contribute to the national economy and the majority of those working in these SME companies are Malays.
“If the Malays have problems and need assistance, we will help them - which is why we continue our bumiputra agenda," he said.
Touching upon the Indian community, he acknowledged that there is still plenty of room for improvement that needs to be implemented to empower opportunities and the standard of living for the community.
In another development, Anwar defended the government's decision to extend the tax exemption period for Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) for the next 10 years.
He added that the move is a high-impact educational initiative for national human capital development and should not be tarnished by racial sentiments or narrow political interests.
"I'm prepared to go to TAR UMT although it's a Chinese initiative. Why? Because I support educational efforts for Malaysians. Even if it is a Chinese initiative, so what? The Malays will benefit. The Chinese will benefit. I make no apologies about that," he added.
Anwar also reminded those present that issues related to education should not be politicised to the point of creating a perception that the government discriminates in its treatment of any race.
