Anwar denies poor ties with Zahid, says unity government cooperation is good
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim denied reports of a poor relationship with UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
- He stated that cooperation within the unity government remains strong, despite minor state-level disagreements.
- Anwar emphasized his preference for peaceful dialogue over confrontation in resolving political differences.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has dismissed claims of a strained relationship with UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, asserting that their collaboration within the unity government remains robust. Anwar, who also leads the PKR party, acknowledged that minor disagreements at the state level are normal and do not undermine national cooperation.
There are quarrels. At the state level, there are small ones, it's normal. These are personal views and he always sees it in terms of how to quarrel. I see it in terms of peace. That's different. But it's still good.
"There are quarrels. At the state level, there are small ones, it's normal. These are personal views and he always sees it in terms of how to quarrel. I see it in terms of peace. That's different. But it's still good," Anwar told reporters. He characterized his approach as one of peace, contrasting it with Zahid's more confrontational style, but stressed that their relationship is "still good."
He prefers quarrels, I prefer peace.
Anwar's remarks followed speculation about his relationship with Zahid and internal PKR issues in Negeri Sembilan. He reiterated his appreciation for Zahid and UMNO's role in forming the unity government, thanking them for their early contributions. He believes that differing opinions among parties and leaders are common in politics and can be resolved through discussion.
That's why earlier I thanked him in my presidential speech about the role of Datuk Seri Zahid and UMNO and the entire leadership in cementing the unity government at the early stage.
Regarding reports that six PKR branches in Negeri Sembilan had urged the state's Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun (also the state PKR chairman), to resign, Anwar stated the matter could be discussed. He mentioned he had not officially received any letters but was aware of their existence, adding, "There's no problem. We can discuss."
There's no problem. We can discuss.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.