KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim became emotional after mentioning the date Sept 20 during his speech at HSBC's 140th Anniversary celebration earlier today.
Anwar's tone shifted immediately, and his expression turned solemn as he apologised to the audience, explaining that he could not stay long as he needed to attend the "Himpunan Keadilan: Suara Rakyat, Suara Keramat" event.
He said that Sept 20 was a date filled with painful memories, not just for him but also for his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and their entire family.
"September 20 was a difficult day for me, Azizah, and our family when I was arrested and imprisoned.
"But that's history. My hardships during more than 10 years in prison have given me maturity, and I can now smile.
"But what's important now is not to dwell on the past. We have a mission to ensure the country's economy grows and becomes a champion of Asean.
"That is the responsibility of the current leadership," he said.