Are those living lavishly without pay also 'ultra rich', Wan Saiful asks PM

PARLIAMENT | Tasek Gelugor MP Wan Saiful Wan Jan has challenged Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to clarify his definition of the “ultra rich”.

The Bersatu MP in his debate of the Supply Bill 2025 questioned Anwar’s use of the term and called for a more precise explanation.

“I’d like to ask, what is the real definition of ‘ultra rich’? Is someone who can live lavishly without a salary for years considered ultra-wealthy?

“Is someone who becomes a millionaire simply by serving as a political aide included in this category?” he asked in a veiled jab at Anwar’s former political aide, Farhash Wafa Salvador Rizal Mubarak.

Farhash was at the centre of attention after reports emerged that he allegedly invested nearly RM40 million in technology service provider HeiTech Padu Sdn Bhd following its shortlisting for a government contract.

Anwar, who is also Tambun MP, has forgone his salary as prime minister for the third consecutive year since taking office in November 2022.

In April, Anwar also returned the allowances he received as Khazanah Nasional chairperson.

READ MORE: PM salary lower than six state MBs or CMs

Wan Saiful further questioned Anwar’s use of what he described as an outdated “'99 percent versus one percent” propaganda.

“Is this populist rhetoric created in America genuinely being used to advocate for the poor, or is it merely propaganda to obscure repeated failures in fulfilling promises that are increasingly evident?

“How much longer will this rhetoric and propaganda be used to conceal the government’s inability to manage the country effectively?

“I believe it’s time to stop relying on rhetoric and instead focus on delivering tangible results so that the people can not only hear but also see the outcomes,” he asserted.

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