Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has hit back at critics mocking his decision to refuse his prime ministerial salary.

In response to accusations of political theatrics, he pointed out that he still receives an allowance as the Tambun MP.

“When I said I wouldn’t take the prime minister’s salary, I was ridiculed. But I do take my MP allowance, and Azizah (his wife and Bandar Tun Razak MP Wan Azizah Wan Ismail) also gets hers.

“So, when combined, we’re fine - I’m not poor,” Anwar said in a speech at the Madani government’s second-anniversary celebration held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

In his first press conference as prime minister on Nov 24, 2022, Anwar said he would not take a salary for his prime minister and finance minister positions, describing it as the first step to gaining the people’s confidence in his leadership.

Anwar today did not disclose the total amount of allowances he receives.

Previously, Malaysiakini reported that a non-executive Dewan Rakyat member can receive at least RM25,700 in fixed monthly allowance.

This includes RM16,000 in basic monthly allowance and other fixed allowances such as for entertainment and petrol.

READ MORE: Allowances and perks: How much do MPs, speakers, and deputy speakers get?

Meanwhile, Anwar reiterated that the government has made sacrifices to ensure fairness, including a 20 percent reduction in ministerial salaries, while public servant wages were recently raised.

Despite these efforts, he noted that certain parties remain quick to criticise without offering constructive suggestions.

“This is the nature of small-minded politics.

“They don’t appreciate initiatives but are ready to criticise. Some even make baseless claims, like saying I’m trying to emulate the Prophet Muhammad by not taking a salary.

“But as far as I know, the Prophet didn’t refuse his earnings either - perhaps I’m just not as clever as they (critics) are to see it differently.”

His remarks likely refer to PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang who aimed his remarks at a “person” seeking to display piety by declining a salary.

Be constructive in criticising govt

Anwar also urged Malaysians to focus on productive dialogue instead of descending into baseless attacks.

“If you want Madani to succeed, there needs to be enlightenment. People need to hear all perspectives, but those perspectives should include solutions, not just insults,” he said.

Acknowledging the criticism as part and parcel of leadership, Anwar added, “If you think a policy isn’t sufficient or effective, fine - propose alternatives.

“But don’t make this about personal ridicule. Let’s focus on building the nation, not tearing each other down.”

The prime minister concluded by emphasising the need for a collective effort to achieve a brighter future, where debates centre on ideas rather than insults.

Hadi claims some want to be better than Prophet by rejecting salary

Hadi claims some want to be better than Prophet by rejecting salary

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

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

Hamzah: If PM has no income, does his food appear out of thin air?

Hamzah: If PM has no income, does his food appear out of thin air?

PM to keep forgoing salary, cabinet maintains 20pct pay cut

PM to keep forgoing salary, cabinet maintains 20pct pay cut