KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 24 — Consensus decision-making has been the key factor that strengthens the administration of the Unity Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim over the past year, especially in maintaining Malaysia’s economic, political, and social stability.
In Perak, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said despite occasional differences of opinion among leaders in the state’s Unity Government, it was the consensus that ensured the state administration’s smooth running.
“Every week, we hold a state executive council meeting professionally, peacefully, and with tolerance; even though sometimes there are differing opinions, we celebrate the differences and try to reach a consensus.
“I am sure the consensus had inadvertently dispelled any doubts from anyone who thinks that this Unity Government can only last for a short period,” he told the press in Bagan Datuk today, in conjunction with the first anniversary of Anwar’s appointment as Prime Minister.
With the full support from the state Cabinet members, especially those from Pakatan Harapan, Saarani is optimistic the Perak Unity Government will continue to persist until the end of the term to discharge its duties as a responsible government for the people.
Echoing his sentiments is Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming, who hopes all Malaysians will continue to give unwavering support to the Unity Government so the momentum of rebuilding the country can be sustained until success is achieved.
He said the performance of the Unity Government under Anwar’s leadership has been outstanding, and its effects can be enjoyed by all segments of society, enhancing Malaysia’s reputation globally.
“The Madani Government’s first anniversary brings hope and meaning to the consensus decision-making practised in the Unity Government to revive the country’s economy. It also demonstrates the strength of the Prime Minister’s leadership,” he said in a statement.
Anwar assumed the premiership on November 24 last year, five days after the 15th General Election, to lead a Unity Government. On December 2 the same year, he appointed two Deputy Prime Ministers and 28 new Cabinet members.
On January 19, he introduced the Malaysia Madani concept as an effort to steer and restore the dignity and glory of the country on the world stage. Madani is based on six pillars: sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and compassion.
Elaborating, Nga said the Prime Minister has led by example, which pushed his entire Cabinet to work tirelessly to lure foreign investments, reduce the deficit and inflation rates, and promote sustainable economic growth.
“As a result, Malaysia’s economy has grown rapidly in the first three quarters of this year, with economic growth reaching 5.6 per cent in the first quarter alone.
“The country’s inflation rate has also decreased to 1.9 per cent, and the job market has become more stable, leading to a decrease in the unemployment rate from 5.9 per cent to only 3.5 per cent,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s two official visits to China this year have also secured investments of RM170 billion, while his visit to the United States during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit generated RM63 billion in high-tech investments.
“If all these investment projects are implemented, the World Bank’s prediction of Malaysia achieving high-income status by 2028 will be realised. Therefore, I hope all Malaysians unite and move together towards a fully developed nation,” he added.
In Selangor, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the one-year tenure of the Madani government under Anwar’s leadership proves Harapan is the best and highly committed to achieving success for Malaysia.
“I believe the government has done its best. Datuk Seri Anwar himself works day and night, and his level of commitment is extraordinary.
“According to data released by the Merdeka Centre (previously), Anwar actually has the highest rating compared to other prime ministers in their first year. I believe his rating is still above 50 per cent, which is evidence that he is among the best,” he told Bernama.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, in her lecture in conjunction with Universiti Selangor’s 17th convocation ceremony today, also expressed hope the people would continue to support and pray for her husband so he would be able to bear the responsibility of leading the country.
At the same time, Dr Wan Azizah hopes certain parties would not just criticise Anwar but also provide suggestions to improve his leadership style.
“He is not perfect; he is an ordinary human being. At this age, with this responsibility, let us pray for him.
“It is okay to criticise, but please do not condemn. With various perceptions and narratives about Anwar, what else can be done? So, give him suggestions to improve,” she added.
— Bernama
