SUNGAI PETANI: The opposition has yet to accept the federal government's invitation to discuss projects for opposition-held constituencies.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said opposition lawmakers had criticised the government and accused it of being cruel for not approving projects proposed for their constituencies.
"After being appointed prime minister, I have responded to them, saying that after negotiations, we will approve the projects immediately for opposition lawmakers, like the approvals given to other members of parliament.
"On behalf of the government, I have asked Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof to invite opposition MPs for discussions."
He said the opposition has refused to talk, but has continued to criticise the government and claim that projects are not being approved.
Anwar said this in his speech at the closing of the People's Prosperity and Development Convention at Dewan Perdana, Universiti Teknologi Mara Merbok campus, here today.
Present were Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said his administration had never neglected projects in opposition-held constituencies, as the government wanted to ensure that all projects that were beneficial for the people would be implemented.
"Whether they come from MPs from the unity government parties or the opposition bloc, it does not influence our decision-making in prioritising people-centric projects.
"There has to be a discussion. If we agree on it today, I will approve it by tomorrow.
"For example, if we agreed on it on Monday, I will approve it on Tuesday.
"Even though the state elections are around the corner, it won't be an issue.
"I know my duty as prime minister in safeguarding the interests of all citizens," he said.