Ringgit's performance: Don't twist my words, PM tells media

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged the media not to twist his words when translating his comments on the ringgit’s performance.

This comes after Anwar claimed that a Malaysiakini columnist had allegedly used different wording when translating his statement.

"I mentioned in Sabah that the ringgit's position, in terms of its highest increase in Asia, was significant. Some people misunderstood and said the PM was wrong. Watch the video again; it's about the highest increase in Asia.

"That's why in Malaysia, whether you're Malay, Chinese, Indian, or Kadazan, you must have a good command of the Malay language.

“I hope Malaysiakini can correct this," he said while launching the guidelines on the management and governance of federal statutory bodies.

Earlier today, former business editor P Gunasegaram wrote a comment piece claiming that Anwar had mistakenly described the ringgit's performance as at its strongest level.

Gunasegaram was responding to a Bernama report on Aug 4, where Anwar said that the ringgit is at its strongest level in 14 years, attributing this to the coalition government’s policies and collective efforts to develop the country.

Anwar said he was open to criticism but hoped to not be misquoted.

READ MORE: Fact-check: What did Anwar say about ringgit’s performance?

"So if they want to criticise, that's fine, but if possible, refer to the facts and use the correct words," he added.

Bernama reported on Aug 2 that the ringgit had maintained its bullish trend, reaching a 14-month high of RM4.49 against the greenback.

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