KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was showered with warmth at the historic Dewan Merdeka today as Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi paid tribute to his mentor.
The Umno president gave an impassioned speech during the unity government’s national convention, describing Anwar as a “world-class leader” for being synonymous with diversity and patriotism.
“About 25 years ago, Dewan Merdeka witnessed an individual with us (Anwar) humiliated, insulted, and oppressed. Now, 25 years later today, he is the prime minister of Malaysia,” he said.
“What we uphold are plurality and diversity. What we defend is nationalism. What this translates to is Anwar,” he added, before calling on all attendees to give Anwar a standing ovation.
Proving his support, Zahid assured Anwar that both he and fellow Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof will strive to uphold the Tambun MP’s “pure” aspirations on the international scene.
The Bagan Datuk MP also told attendees against dwelling in the past and to focus on meeting the people’s needs as a united front.
“Umno and Barisan Nasional ask (attendees) to not look back, as in front of us, the people want a prime minister and party to drive Malaysia as a forward-looking country,” he said.
“Do not look back. There are people who do not like us there, people who criticise us. The people want this unity government to move forward,” he added.
Zahid also took the opportunity to congratulate attendees for donning white apparel, which he said was sculpting a new political future. – The Vibes, May 14, 2023
