By Danial Dzulkifly
PETALING JAYA, Aug 7 — Recent investments by renowned German semiconductor manufacturer Infineon Technologies AG and prominent Chinese automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd signify not just an economic rebound but also serve as a strong endorsement of the Unity Government’s political stability.
In this regard, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the current make-up of the federal administration remains the most stable and resolute alliance that is committed to safeguarding the country.
“When a government is stable, people and investments follow. Their presence will give birth to higher-paying jobs, possibly 5,000 or 8,000 more.
“Many are unemployed or underpaid (today), but with increased investments and competition, wages will be elevated,” he said during a campaign event in Taman Medan here last night, attended by over 2,000 people.
Last month, Geely announced a RM45.6 billion investment plan to transform Tanjung Malim in Perak into the region’s largest auto city.
In addition, Anwar recently announced that Infineon has committed to a RM25 billion investment to expand its factory in Kulim Hi-Tech Park in Kedah.
However, the German firm’s investment was criticised by Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, who claimed credit for bringing the investment to the state.
In response, Anwar clarified that Infineon had only finalised its decision “days ago” after he held discussions with representatives of the company and vouched for Malaysia’s political stability.
“Their board members visited my office. In the meeting, Tengku Zafrul was present. They sought discretion, pending board approval, since they were also entertaining offers from other nations,” Anwar said, referring to Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
“They mentioned that a decision was only made by the end of July. Yet, Sanusi claimed to have met them two years ago. I see no reason to argue with such a fool,” he said.
Separately, Anwar said Geely had recently written to him, attributing the automaker’s increased investment in Malaysia to governmental stability and appealing incentives.
In the same ceramah, Selangor Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari highlighted the importance of the state aligning with parties under the Unity Government.
The state Pakatan Harapan (Harapan) chairman stressed the need for continuity of policies initiated by the coalition, which has led the state since 2008.
“We must uphold this continuity to maintain our people-centric initiatives. Yet, we have Perikatan Nasional (PN) proclaiming its desire to seize the state, and that the downfall of the federal government would follow suit.
“Its divisive tactics and political manoeuvring only beget instability,” he said.
In his speech, Amirudin also took aim at PN’s Taman Medan candidate, Afif Bahardin, a former PKR representative who defected to join Bersatu during the Sheraton Move in 2020.
“Such an individual who is shameless, arrogant, and egotistical should be held accountable. I trust Taman Medan’s residents will vote wisely,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd.
Harapan is fielding Ahmad Akhir Pawan Chik to face Afif in Taman Medan.
