KUALA LUMPUR: An aide to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has criticised Bersih for awarding the unity government a "D" grade for its performance.
Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, Anwar's political secretary in his role as Finance Minister, said political, economic, and administrative reforms were ongoing.
"Reforms also mean that the government's performance must be evaluated through comprehensive economic indicators and improved investor confidence. These successes would not be possible without the prudent and wise governance foundations established by the government," he said.
Kamil said "bold decisions," like targeted diesel subsidies, were crucial to strengthening the country's financial position.
He added that the government had increased financial aid for the people and introduced the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act to discourage wastefulness.
He also cited plans for a Government Procurement Act to ensure greater transparency in procurement processes.
"We must learn from experience. Changes must not be implemented hastily and should be prioritised based on current circumstances," he stated.
Kamil said that while the Prime Minister and the government were open to criticism, grading schemes that overlook the facts are "hasty and shallow."
Earlier, Bersih chairman Faisal Abdul Aziz said the unity government received the grade due to limited progress in implementing reforms.