Incoming PKR president Anwar Ibrahim continues to be dogged by cynical questions about his alliance with former nemesis-turned-ally Dr Mahathir Mohamad, namely whether he trusts the prime minister and whether the latter is a changed man.

Addressing the business community at the annual Singapore Summit in the city-state this afternoon, Anwar acknowledged that Mahathir's personality was very much the same but stressed that, in terms of policies and principles, there had been a clear departure from the past.

"Mahathir is Mahathir - tough, frank, provocative, doesn't mince words. Okay, we all understand him. But is he committed to reforms? He has made it clear that Malaysia must emerge as a democracy.

"Does he believe in an independent anti-corruption commission? Yes. Does he tolerate a free media? Yes. So in that sense, he has changed," said Anwar.

He added that Mahathir's personality and cynicism were things he had to bear with.

"Which is fine... There are points of issues I choose to disagree (with Mahathir on). For example, the combative mode.

'I used to tell him if you continue like this... I have a job - the old job of firefighting," he said.

Ultimately, Anwar said, the important part was that Mahathir was committed towards the fundamental issues.

Dr M: A man in a hurry

Anwar added that Mahathir had even been "impatient" in wanting reforms.

"He said, ‘Anwar, our colleagues are a bit slow. The public servants are not pushing ahead with these reforms’. So you can sense the vigour in him which I, of course, admire," said the PKR leader.

He was also asked about the possibility of Mahathir refusing to transfer the premiership to him, as previously agreed upon by Pakatan Harapan coalition members.

Anwar then once again stressed that he had a cordial working relationship with Mahathir, but noted the scepticism in the room.

"I know some of you are cynical, I could see the smiles," he laughed.

However, the former deputy prime minister stressed that Mahathir had, to date, kept his word on several promises, including ensuring an independent judiciary, supporting anti-corruption efforts, as well as securing Anwar’s freedom.

"For my part, I have no reason to doubt his sincerity... People asked him (Mahathir), ‘Are you sure Anwar will be your successor?’ And then they ask me, 'Do you trust him?'

"I said, ‘Yes, I do’. So I think both of us have taped the answers we can make ready (for) the questions," he said.