PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) not to investigate any individual or group for criticising him unless the remarks amount to defamation or involve elements of criminal wrongdoing.
Anwar said the instruction covers all forms of political criticism levelled against him, stressing that freedom of expression within reasonable bounds must be respected.
“Several actions against government critics, including those attacking me, I have instructed that no investigation is necessary. I do not question their intentions or motives, even when the claims are baseless, but I have directed that no action be taken unless the matter involves clear criminal offences or extreme accusations, such as calling someone an agent of Israel or alleging they have HIV, which is wholly improper,” he said.
He was speaking after performing Friday prayers with some 1,500 congregants at Masjid Cyberjaya 10.
Anwar also rebuked those who attempt to justify abusive or unfounded statements under the guise of political criticism.
“I find it odd that some within Malay and Islamic parties endorse such behaviour. Nevertheless, I have instructed that criticism towards Anwar, or the Prime Minister, should not prompt action.
“Claims rooted purely in politics, including calls for the Prime Minister to resign or step down, are normal statements. I do not think either I or PDRM should entertain them,” he said.
In another matter, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Sabah’s leadership to ensure the state’s development is comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable.
The Prime Minister’s senior press secretary, Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, said strong cooperation between the Federal and Sabah governments is essential in addressing strategic priorities such as infrastructure, service delivery, economic advancement and the welfare of Sabahans.
“The Prime Minister’s Office extends its highest congratulations to Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor on the formation of the new Sabah Unity Cabinet.
“The establishment of this leadership line-up reflects political maturity, unity and a commitment to advancing Sabah’s development agenda over the next five years.
“The cohesion and precision of this new Cabinet are expected to further strengthen relations between both levels of government, ensuring that the aspirations of the people of Sabah can be realised more effectively,” he said during the PMO’s daily briefing.
Tunku Nashrul confirmed that Anwar is scheduled to be in Sabah tomorrow to attend the Majlis Sentuhan MADANI Bersama Rakyat Negeri Sabah at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
“In addition to meeting the people of Sabah, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to hold discussions with the Chief Minister and the new Sabah Cabinet ministers.”
On 30 November, Hajiji was sworn in as Chief Minister for a second term before the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Musa Aman, at Istana Seri Kinabalu.
Hajiji, chairman of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), led the coalition to victory in the 17th Sabah state election, winning 29 of the 55 seats contested. He retained the Sulaman seat with 10,639 votes, defeating four other candidates. - December 5, 2025
