By Danial Dzulkifly
SHAH ALAM, Sept 20 — Despite his long political career, marked by continuous struggle and questionable incarcerations, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has maintained that structural change in Malaysia’s political system must be pursued in an orderly manner.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s vice president Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the principles of the rule of law and democracy have always been upheld by Keadilan’s president throughout his career, despite political manoeuvring and betrayals by his opponents.
Speaking at the ‘Himpunan Keadilan, Suara Rakyat Suara Keramat’ event, he recalled Anwar’s leadership when Pakatan Harapan was betrayed during the infamous Sheraton Move in February 2020, which led to the collapse of the coalition’s administration.
“The victory in 2018 marked the first time in our history that we achieved a major success. While many thought that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s release was enough, the betrayal in 2020 proved that this struggle is far from over.
“The government was formed not through the people’s votes but through betrayal that damaged our country. But, this is the spirit led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim — a person with a big heart, an open mind, and always safeguarding the country’s peace and stability,” Amirudin said.
He added that even in critical moments, Anwar chose a path of order and rejected actions that might lead to violence or unrest.
Amirudin was delivering his speech before several thousand attendees of the special celebration commemorating the birth of the Reformasi movement following Anwar’s arrest on September 20, 1998, at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil tonight.
In his speech, Amirudin, who is also the Selangor Menteri Besar, said despite Anwar being critised and even slandered from all directions, the Tambun MP remains steadfast in leading, upholding democratic practises and good values.
“As a result of this, the 2022 general election witnessed a new rise of the Malaysian people, and the formation of a unity government with a two-thirds majority mandate, now led by Anwar as the Prime Minister of Malaysia.
“The 26 years of the Reformasi movement have taught us the meaning of patience, resilience, and magnanimity. It is not just a chant or cheer, but a struggle for the future of Malaysia.
“Let us continue to move forward to save our nation and ensure that it regains its dignity and respect,’’ he said.
In attendance at the event were senior leaders and Cabinet members from Keadilan, along with grassroots activists and leaders.
The event saw poems, songs, and interpretive dance performances as well speeches by key leaders dedicated to the Reformasi movement.
Anwar had also delivered the concluding speech for the night, encapsulating Reformasi, Keadilan, and his political struggle, as well as current effort to lead the country.
