In a sharp and sarcastic retort, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail responded to Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's recent critique of the current Cabinet's administrative capabilities. Dr. Mahathir had remarked that many in Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's Cabinet were lacking in administrative prowess, focusing more on politics than effective governance.
Saifuddin, also the secretary-general of Pakatan Harapan and PKR, humorously endorsed Dr. Mahathir's assertion during a press conference at the Royal Malaysian Police College. "I agree with him because Mahathir alone is the most capable person in this world. I fully agree," Saifuddin quipped, subtly acknowledging the former prime minister's reputed strong-handed leadership and administrative skills.
Dr. Mahathir's remarks, made in an interview with FMT, underscored his belief that while the current Cabinet members may be skilled politicians, they have struggled to translate their popularity into cohesive and effective governance. He also criticized Anwar Ibrahim's leadership style, suggesting a preoccupation with political survival rather than assertive leadership.
Amidst the banter, Saifuddin Nasution shifted focus to the Ministry of Home Affairs' objectives, highlighting their ambition to elevate Malaysia to Tier 1 status in the US State Department's Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report. This aspiration follows Malaysia's recent upgrade to Tier 2, reflecting improved efforts in combating human trafficking.
The home minister outlined strategic initiatives aimed at achieving this goal, emphasizing capacity-building within the ministry, enhanced collaboration with other agencies and stakeholders, and bolstering existing legal frameworks. He expressed optimism that Malaysia's upgraded ranking would alleviate concerns over potential export bans linked to allegations of forced labor, particularly within the plantation sector.
Echoing Saifuddin's sentiments, Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan welcomed Malaysia's improved ranking in the TIP report as a recognition of the government's rigorous efforts to combat human trafficking. He reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to implementing the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons (2021-2025), emphasizing the need for international cooperation to address this global challenge effectively.
Furthermore, Mohamad Hasan called upon countries of origin to share responsibility in preventing their citizens from falling victim to trafficking, urging proactive measures against perpetrators both locally and internationally.
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