Anwar thanks Zahid for commitment to forming Unity Government

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed gratitude to UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for his resolve in forming the Unity Government. Anwar also extended his appreciation to Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg and other leaders from Sabah for their support in establishing the coalition.

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We take the decision to be with UMNO and I thank and appreciate Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the Deputy Prime Minister and UMNO President, who is determined to be together.

Speaking at the PKR National Congress, Anwar, who is also PKR President, acknowledged that differing views exist among the parties in the Unity Government. However, he stressed the importance of understanding that change must be implemented gradually. "We are not a government that rules alone. We need to negotiate," he stated, highlighting that priorities can vary significantly between regions like Kelantan and Sabah, and among different ethnic groups such as Malays, Chinese, Indians, and the Orang Asli.

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We are not a government that rules alone. We need to negotiate. The priorities in Kelantan are not necessarily the same as the priorities in Sabah.

Anwar drew a parallel with the approach of Caliph Umar Abdul Aziz, suggesting that attempting to implement all changes at once can lead to a loss of capacity. He argued that a phased approach does not signify a delay in reforms but rather ensures their effective execution. "Haste in making all changes can cause us to lose the ability to implement them," he explained.

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Haste in making all changes can cause us to lose the ability to implement them.

While acknowledging that numerous reforms have been initiated during the Unity Government's tenure, Anwar admitted that much work remains. He stated, "Are all things finished? No. There are still hundreds of changes that need to be made. I am not defending everything we have done. I admit there are still shortcomings."

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Are all things finished? No. There are still hundreds of changes that need to be made. I am not defending everything we have done. I admit there are still shortcomings.