Have a safe journey home, PM wishes 'Turun Anwar' rally attendees

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim wished all those who participated in the “Turun Anwar” rally a safe journey home.

He also extended his appreciation to the police, Fire and Rescue Department, medical services and volunteers for their dedication in ensuring the protest went on smoothly.

“To those who participated in the rally – be it to voice your opinions or for solidarity – I wish you all a safe trip back home.

“May your journey remain smooth and safe,” he said on Facebook today.

Thousands had thronged near Dataran Merdeka for the rally, calling for Anwar to resign over his failure to alleviate the people’s plight.

Among those who attended the opposition-led rally were Perikatan Nasional chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin and former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Earlier, PAS leaders Ahmad Fadhli Shaari and Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden said that the turnout was at 500,000. Malaysiakini estimated the number to be around 25,000.

However, the police had a lower estimate at around 18,000.

‘Value diverse views’

Anwar stressed that he valued democratic principles, which include freedom of expression.

He said that one should never look at differences of opinions or criticism from a negative standpoint, adding that such diversity would help Malaysians become more mature and progressive.

“What is important is that it should be done for the love of the nation and in a civil manner,” he added.

Citing an example, Anwar said the Dewan Rakyat now has the Prime Minister’s Question Time (PMQT) – where MPs are free to ask him questions.

“So, I invite everyone to a dialogue so that we can find a middle ground, grow together and take the country forward.

“And I hope the people would pressure their MPs to continue attending Dewan Rakyat sitting and take part in the debates, especially during (PMQT),” the Tambun MP added.

‘Failed rally’

Amanah Youth communications director Asim Abdullah described the rally as a failure.

“Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin said the rally could attract up to 1 million people, but our observations show the number is between 20,000 and 30,000 – which is way off,” he said in a statement.

Asim added that the issues raised during the rally were inconsistent and based on perception alone, adding that the opposition did not even offer better solutions.

“The people are mature enough to reject the politics of provocation, and we will continue to support the prime minister and the Madani administration to build an inclusive, progressive and competitive Malaysia,” he added.

About 25k throng Dataran Merdeka for 'Turun Anwar' rally

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