Zahid calls for support for Anwar to ensure political stability [WATCH]

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for unwavering support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to ensure Malaysia's political stability and economic growth, particularly as the nation looks toward the next general election.

He said political stability would enable the country to attract more foreign direct investments (FDI), bolster economic growth, and create a stronger foundation for future development.

"As the chairman of Barisan Nasional (BN) and president of Umno, I firmly believe that this government must be preserved until the next election for the benefit of the rakyat. Our focus must be on ensuring a stable political environment.

"The government's primary objective is to improve economic stability, eradicate extreme poverty, and provide better opportunities for Malaysians," he said during an interview on Podcast Utama Buletin Utama.

Zahid also expressed his strong support for Anwar, calling him a globally respected leader whose stance on issues such as the Palestinian cause has garnered international recognition.

He said that Anwar's efforts to support Gaza's reconstruction, despite the immense cost, have positioned him as a leader admired by Islamic nations and world leaders alike.

"The plan for Gaza's reconstruction, which requires a staggering 1 trillion dollars, focuses on vital areas such as education, healthcare, and mosque construction. This effort, alongside countries like Japan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Turkey, reflects Datuk Seri Anwar's leadership and his significant role on the world stage," Zahid said.

He also acknowledged the importance of cooperation among government ministers, urging them to avoid public disagreements and instead address any differences through proper channels.

He said political differences should not undermine the unity government's objectives and must be resolved respectfully.

"In the next general election, it is crucial that the political landscape remains stable, with a government that is committed to the people's well-being.

"Our goal is to provide food on the table, money in the pockets, and shelter for the rakyat, alongside a strong education system for future generations," Zahid said.

Commenting on the differences of opinion among the component parties forming the unity government, Zahid said it should not be discussed publicly but instead should be addressed through the appropriate channels.

"We are grateful that Allah has placed Anwar as the prime minister, along with the two deputy prime ministers and other ministers who support the unity government. Party leaders in the unity government also provide their support."

"Disagreements may occur, but do not use the media to express these differences. Instead, discuss them on the proper platform," he said.

Meanwhile, Zahid said that all parties must accept the reality of the coalition of various parties that formed the unity government, a process that followed the outcome of the 15th General Election.

He said that this situation transcends the strategic calculations of any party, political coalition, or "political masters" and "masters of operation".

"We need 112 Members of Parliament to form the government. Pakatan Harapan (PH) 2.0 holds 82 Members of Parliament, while we (BN) have 30 representatives, making a total of 112 Members of Parliament. This is 'divine intervention' (Allah's will)."

"Had it been decreed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's proclamation for a unity government to be formed, it would have been given to Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Anwar."

"Imagine combining 82 (PH MPs) and 73 (Perikatan Nasional MPs), but Allah did not open Muhyiddin's heart to agree and comply with the King's decree to form a unity government."

"What would it mean if the 73 became the opposition? The 30 who should be in the opposition became the government. All of this is 'divine intervention,' so in matters like this, we should not only focus on strategy on the stage," he said.