PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is moved by the overwhelming turnout at the first Pakatan Harapan-led government’s Hari Raya open house, which is ongoing.
The public has turned out in the tens of thousands – forcing Dr Mahathir to issue a general apology for not being able to greet everyone personally.
Some guests arrived at Seri Perdana as early as 7am – two hours before the start of the event – for a glimpse of the 7th prime minister.
“Malaysians, regardless of race, turned out today, many in traditional Malay outfits.
“This reflects the excellent (multiracial) spirit of Malaysians. (It’s) a sign of a good future for the country,” he said in an address to the crowd here.
Dr Mahathir, who was clad in a purple baju Melayu, said many who shook hands with him thanked him for “saving the country.”
“Some said ‘I love you’! They did not bring (the I Love You, PM placards), but they stood in queue, shook my hands and said ‘I love you,” he said, which caused guests to roar with laughter.
However, Dr Mahathir was quick to point out that he was not the sole person to “save the country.”
He cited “people power” and thanked those who supported Pakatan Harapan despite the hoops the previous government had made them jump through.
Dr Mahathir added that the previous regime “could not even save themselves.”
“This is due to democracy. People are free to choose their government.
“If it is no longer suitable or is outdated, you need to vote them out.
“We did not have violence, animosity or war (in the transition of power),” he said.
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