PM Anwar: General election is over, time for federal and state govts to work together for the sake of public

SEBERANG PERAI, April 14 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today that his federal administration is open to working with state governments — including those under Perikatan Nasional (PN) — for the sake of the public.

He gave the example of a recent meeting with the PAS-led Kelantan state government yesterday, saying he has taken note of Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Yaakob's concerns.

“Tomorrow I will be going to Terengganu, not only to meet with the federal agencies, but we will also work with the state government,” he said in his speech at the official launch of the construction of the Mengkuang Titi Mosque here.

He said while PN and his Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition were political opponents during the election, now is not the time to let the rift between the state and federal administrations continue.

He said now that the general election is over, the time has come to work together and move forward in peace.

“The federal and state governments need to work together, so that the people’s interests can be protected,” he said.

He added that he hopes there is a cooperative spirit between states and federal going forward.

Anwar also spoke on his strict anti-corruption policy that has benefited the government.

He said the government has seen an increase in revenue after cutting out corruption.

“When we cut out those direct contracts and ‘commissions’ given out, we can see an increase in the country’s revenue within three months,” he said.

He said even as the prime minister and finance minister, there is no room for corruption or for him to benefit his family members or relatives through projects.

He said the Pakatan Harapan government will continue its fight against corruption.

Meanwhile, Anwar also announced a RM5.4 million allocation for the construction of the Mengkuang Titi Mosque.

He praised the mosque kariah for taking proactive steps to raise RM2.5 million for the construction of the mosque which is estimated to cost RM9 million.

Anwar said the Penang government has also allocated RM1.1 million to help build the mosque.

“It is hoped that this mosque will be built with the right intentions and not merely to display pride and grandeur,” he said.

He also said he chose to attend the ceremony for this mosque because it is located in Permatang Pauh.

“Do not think that I have forgotten Permatang Pauh. I chose to come for this event because it is here,” he said.