Political apathy means leaving future in corrupt hands - Anwar
Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim today said political apathy among voters will leave decisions affecting future generations in the hands of those who are corrupt.
The PKR president in his speech at the party’s “Pulse of the People Assembly” (Sidang Nadi Rakyat) reminded that every single person has the power to choose between what is good and bad.
“Yes, these days there are...
Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim today said political apathy among voters will leave decisions affecting future generations in the hands of those who are corrupt.
The PKR president in his speech at the party’s “Pulse of the People Assembly” (Sidang Nadi Rakyat) reminded that every single person has the power to choose between what is good and bad.
“Yes, these days there are the ones cynical with politics due to cruel and insolent acts.
“But if we choose to reject politics, we are sacrificing the future of our children. To be decided by those who are corrupt,” said Anwar.
“No matter Malays, Kadazans, Chinese, Indians, we all have a choice. Do not allow the people to be sacrificed,” he stressed.
Anwar said while he did not take to the stage today to defend Pakatan Harapan’s 22-month reign in federal power, it was undeniable that the opportunity was used by leaders appointed as ministers to introduce policy changes for benefit of the people.
Among others, Anwar cited efforts by DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke as then transport minister and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu as then defence minister, both of whom were present today to deliver their speeches.
Anwar also conceded there were mistakes made by “traitors” at the time in power, alluding to those who left with the Sheraton Move in 2020.
‘No choice’ but Harapan
Given the current situation, Anwar said the people now have “no choice” but to support Harapan.
“Who can deny that poverty now is more widespread? Who can dispute the fact that the gap between the rich and poor is widening?
“Who can deny that the political elites are hoarding wealth and using the people?” he said.
“This is not about race. There are traitorous Malay political elites, and there are Chinese, Indians profiting from workers including migrants.
“All are implicated in abuse of power and corruption,” said Anwar.
Loke in his speech highlighted the role of the National Cost of Living Council chaired by then deputy prime minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail to conduct monthly price reviews of basic goods in anticipation of potential hikes.
Mohamad, meanwhile, noted how racial sentiments are increasingly being used to justify bad policies that could lead Malaysia down the past of destruction like Sri Lanka, now facing bankruptcy.
The assembly held at a hotel in Petaling Jaya earlier saw some 200 participants engaging in a cross-segment discussion on the impact of the rising cost of living on various groups including youths, women, gig workers, students and others.
Organisers also held a mock Dewan Rakyat sitting with questions from the floor fielded to speakers who take on the role of “ministers”.
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