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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has affirmed that he will continue to lead the nation despite moves to organise a second “Turun Anwar” rally demanding his resignation.
Speaking at the launch of the Permatang Pauh Madani Mosque development in Seberang Perai Tengah on Saturday, Anwar said he remained committed to implementing the government’s Madani agenda aimed at uplifting citizens, strengthening the economy, and establishing a sustainable and inclusive nation.
“Do not show gratitude, that’s fine, but do not insult. Now there are plans for the Turun Anwar rally again. Do it if you want, but I will continue my struggle.
“I take this opportunity to clarify because otherwise people will question why I explain in a forum like this. Where else can we explain? Here in Permatang Pauh, my family and relatives are present. I do not want them to hear lies and be influenced by incitement,” he said.
The rally follows criticism from former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who demanded Anwar’s resignation over concerns that the US-Malaysia Reciprocal Trade Agreement could undermine national sovereignty and Malay and royal rights.
Dr Mahathir claimed the agreement would obligate Malaysia to purchase US goods worth US$150 billion (RM634 billion), including 30 Boeing aircraft and US$3.4 billion (RM14.28 billion) in gas annually.
Anwar acknowledged that his leadership under the Madani government since 2022 has had shortcomings and welcomed constructive criticism.
“To say there are no weaknesses under Anwar’s leadership is not true. There are weaknesses, indeed. There are things I have not done. Criticise, advise, but do so rationally.
“For instance, I promised lower fuel prices if we won, but it took time to implement. I apologise for the delay. When I spoke, the national debt was RM800 million. Now it is RM1.5 trillion. We had to ensure the country is not burdened by debt,” he said.
He also highlighted the recent implementation of the Budi Madani RON95 subsidy, which reduced petrol prices to RM1.99 for all Malaysian citizens from 30 September, while non-citizens pay RM2.60.
Cost Increase in Penang LRT caused by line extension
Separately, Anwar addressed the rising costs of Penang’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, attributing them to his decision to extend the line across the sea to Seberang Perai.
“When this project was first presented to me, it only covered the island. As a Penangite raised in Seberang Perai, I did not want it to stop there. I suggested that the LRT project cross the sea all the way to Seberang Perai.
“If it was just on the island, people would say it only serves the island, only the interests of the Chinese community, and ignores Seberang Perai, which is predominantly Malay,” he said.
Anwar stressed that the LRT is vital for Penang’s public transport and economic development, dismissing claims that the project is unnecessary.
“If anyone in Permatang Pauh says they do not want the LRT, tell me. This LRT is crucial for the future of the state and its people,” he added.
Permatang Pauh MP Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan had previously questioned the immediate necessity of the LRT Mutiara project, citing other priorities. - November 8, 2025