DATUK Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged politicians across the country to stop pursuing power battles and instead prioritise economic pressures, unemployment and geopolitical uncertainty affecting Malaysians.
Speaking during the National Youth Day 2026 celebration in Seremban on Friday, Anwar said political rivalries should be settled through democratic elections rather than continuous internal conflicts that distract from governing responsibilities.
“Our country is facing problems. The focus should be on the people's problems, not power struggles.”
“This is not the time. There will be a time within our system... elections are the proper arena for that. But now is the time for us to rise and ensure the people are given proper attention,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came amid recent political tensions in Negeri Sembilan involving reports that 14 Barisan Nasional state assemblymen had withdrawn support for Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.
Anwar praised Aminuddin for remaining resilient despite prolonged political challenges within the state administration.
“Resolve matters through consultation and consensus. Negri Sembilan was not spared either.”
“So. I salute Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun for the perseverance and spirit he has shown in facing endless political turmoil,” he said.
The Prime Minister framed the current political climate as particularly dangerous given broader international instability, including rising living costs, unemployment concerns and geopolitical tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
Jho Low Pardon: It’s A US Decision
Separately, Anwar addressed reports that fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, commonly known as Jho Low, had allegedly sought a pardon from Donald Trump in the United States.
The Prime Minister said Malaysia would not formally intervene in the matter, stressing that any pardon decision remained solely within the jurisdiction of the US government.
“No, there is no issue... that is a US decision. At this point we are not moving in that direction. That is America’s affair,” he told reporters.
Anwar added that Malaysia had no plans at present to submit any official representation to Washington regarding any possible pardon consideration involving Jho Low.
Among those present during the National Youth Day event were Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Johari Abdul and Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid.
Critical Thinking Among Youth
He also used the occasion to call for stronger critical thinking among young Malaysians, while warning against toxic political discourse driven by anger and misinformation.
“That is why I say critical thinking must exist. In several engagements, young people have given feedback even to their elders and the prime minister. We must accept it positively because they are speaking from principles and conviction,” he said.
“We want our young people to be open-minded in acquiring knowledge, but moral principles must also be present,” he added.
Anwar said criticism against leaders, including himself, should remain grounded in ethics, knowledge and sincerity rather than emotional attacks.
Commenting on increasingly hostile political rhetoric, the Prime Minister criticised opposition figures who he said relied on extreme narratives and rejected factual economic progress for political gain.
“I heard a speech where I was compared to Abu Jahal. Secondly, it was claimed there is no development and that the country and economy are in ruins. I do not know which 'book' they are referring to.”
“This reflects a loss of judgement and idealism, driven by emotion rather than knowledge and ethics. This is my message to the youth,” he said. - May 15, 2026
