Anwar urges Malaysians to reject racial division, says abuse of power is nation's greatest threat

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians to reject attempts to sow racial hatred, insisting that the country's greatest challenge lies not in its ethnic diversity but in the misuse of power by those entrusted with public responsibility.

Addressing the Malaysia Five Generations Organisation (PLG) Dinner on Saturday evening, Anwar said Malaysians of every race and ethnicity must continue to safeguard national unity and refuse to be manipulated by divisive rhetoric designed to fracture society.

“I see Malay children, Chinese children, Indian children, Orang Asli children, Dayak children and Kadazan children all here. For what?

“Why must brothers and sisters quarrel? Why must they hate?

“The objective must be right. We all want the children of this country to grow up with good values and receive a quality education.

“Malaysia's diversity, encompassing the Malay, Chinese, Indian, Orang Asli, Iban and Kadazan communities, is an absolute strength.

“Our problem is not race, but the abuse of power... do we want this to continue?” Harian Metro quoted him saying.

Anwar stressed that Malaysians from different communities have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to live peacefully, work together and build a stronger nation when they are not influenced by those who deliberately exploit racial sentiment for political gain.

He warned the public against accepting narratives promoted by certain political leaders who seek to divide society by inflaming ethnic tensions, saying such tactics distract from the real issues affecting the country.

“We must show that we have the strength to bring about positive change.

“Our struggle, our efforts and our determination to secure a better future for our children and our country must continue,” he said.

The Prime Minister also emphasised that political leaders must uphold honesty and sincerity when entrusted with the responsibility of governing the nation and safeguarding its prosperity.

Also present at the dinner were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, PLG founder Datuk Abdullah Ghani Kassim and Media Prima Omnia Chief Operating Officer (Direct Solutions) Datuk Mohd Efendi Omar. - June 21, 2026