[UPDATED] Zahid and I have history, but now working together to save country: Anwar

PUTRAJAYA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged civil servants to put aside any differences they may have and work together for the sake of the country. 

Speaking at the Prime Minister’s Department’s (PMD) monthly assembly this morning, Anwar cited his own past thorny relationship with his current deputy, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, as an example of how one should look beyond history and work towards uplifting the rakyat. 

“Looking at my colleagues and team, although we are of different backgrounds and have a history of clashing ideas and were involved in major fights, particularly with the deputy prime minister on my right, it can’t be denied that a united ideology and determination (currently) exists.”

He was referring to Zahid, who was flanking Anwar as the prime minister delivered his address to PMD staff this morning. The Umno president could be seen smiling as he was referenced. 

“This cannot be denied, this is a fact. We are working as a team, and our intention is to save the country, in the spirit of Malaysia Madani,” said Anwar.

Anwar and Zahid were close allies during the former’s time in Umno prior to his sacking in 1998. 

While Anwar’s removal inspired the formation of PKR of which he is now president, Zahid had risen through the ranks in Umno, culminating in his appointment as president of the Malay party. 

As an opposition politician, Anwar had been fighting Zahid’s party and Barisan Nasional (BN), until the unity government was formed following the general election last year.

Pakatan Harapan and BN cooperated to form the government after the polls ended with no single party obtaining a simple majority. 

Anwar was eventually named the country’s 10th prime minister, while Zahid was later appointed deputy prime minister. 

Earlier in his speech, Anwar also asked members of his cabinet to work closely as a team with civil servants in making the rakyat their priority. – The Vibes, February 7, 2023