By Zareef Muzammil
MENTAKAB, Oct 20 — Malaysia can reclaim its former title as an economic ‘Asian Tiger’, if the people choose the right leaders during the 15th general election (GE15).
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim admitted Malaysia has since lost the title, in addition to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate falling behind Vietnam and Thailand.
“When I was finance minister, our GDP growth was nine to 10 per cent every year. We could compete with Singapore when it came to international investments and the number one stock exchange, but now, Malaysia is number one in corruption,” he said.
Speaking at the Pakatan Harapan (PH) roadshow in Pahang yesterday, Anwar said the prime ministerial candidate can possibly rectify the situation and return international confidence in Malaysia.
“Not being able to speak Malay and English well is one thing, but there must be the ability to attract global attention and lift Malaysia up again as an Asian Tiger,” he said.
Anwar’s speech during the PH #MohTukor roadshow in Pahang yesterday evening was attended by thousands of supporters, whose spirits were not dampened despite the drizzly weather.
He described the presence of PH supporters as extraordinary, and believes all of them are determined to want change.
“This shows Mentakab has risen to bring about change. I applaud all of you who are here, even when it is raining.
“Look around, 90 per cent of you are ordinary people, villagers in plain clothing. Compare this with the Umno gathering at hotels.
“Their clothes, their flamboyance, their watches, and compare that with us,” Anwar said.
Meanwhile, the Port Dickson MP also touched on the education gap between national schools, and the Chinese and Tamil vernacular schools, placing an emphasis on improving things.
Anwar additionally spoke on Malaysia’s public health issues that were not properly managed, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The roadshow was held at Mentakab state assembly community service centre and ran from 8pm to midnight in conjunction with GE15.
Other leaders at the roadshow included Selangor and Pahang PH chairman Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, Parti Amanah Negara president Mohamad Sabu, Raub MP Tengku Zulpuri Shah, and Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh.
