DATUK Seri Anwar Ibrahim today issued a stern warning against race-based politics, saying efforts to pit communities against one another will only derail the country’s progress and hurt ordinary Malaysians.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bukit Kiara longhouse permanent housing project, the Prime Minister said campaigns that exploit racial sentiments distract from real issues affecting the rakyat.
“Don’t fall for campaigns that label this as Malay versus Chinese or turn politics into racial conflict. The ones who suffer are the people on the ground,” he said.
Anwar stressed that the country must shift its discourse towards policies that prioritise the people, anchored in compassion, humanity and shared responsibility — core principles under the Madani framework.
“If our policies are clear, leadership is committed, and the people are aware, we can build a new Malaysia that is fair and guarantees well-being for all,” he said, calling on Malaysians of all backgrounds to move forward together.
He reiterated that Malaysia’s foundation as a plural society, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution, must be preserved, rejecting any form of race-based hatred in politics.
At the same event, Anwar underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring no group — particularly the urban poor — is left behind, citing the Bukit Kiara project as a landmark example.
The development will see 200 apartment units built, with each original homeowner receiving two units. Each unit will feature three rooms, with construction expected to be completed within three years.
Describing the project as historically significant, Anwar noted that the residents had waited more than four decades for permanent housing, navigating a long and complex legal process.
“This is not a small project in terms of its historical impact. Urban poor communities like this rarely succeed in defending their rights, especially when facing development pressures,” he said.
He added that the success of the Bukit Kiara residents was achieved through adherence to the rule of law, with the courts carefully weighing all aspects before arriving at a decision.
To support the future residents, Anwar also announced a RM1 million allocation for maintenance costs over three years once the project is completed.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the role of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh in pushing for a resolution, as well as the patience and resilience of the residents.
He emphasised that the Madani government remains committed to fairness, ensuring that the rights of all citizens — regardless of race — are protected.
“This is proof that justice can be delivered when we uphold the law and prioritise the people. The poor — Malay, Chinese, Indian — their rights must be defended,” he said.
Anwar added that similar long-standing housing issues across the country must be addressed through clear policies, institutional cooperation and respect for legal processes.
“Without that, these problems will never be resolved,” he said. – June 15, 2026
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