MELAKA, Aug 16 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said he wants cooperation between the Unity Government and UMNO-Barisan Nasional (BN) at the Federal level to continue, stressing that political stability and the people’s prosperity must take precedence.
Anwar, who is also Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) president, said political decisions should not be driven by personal interests, positions or anger, but must instead be guided by what is best for the people and the country.
“With what has happened recently, some have asked about our relationship with UMNO and BN. I say we must think carefully and exercise wisdom when making decisions.
“We choose stability and the people’s prosperity through economic growth, and we choose to continue working with UMNO-BN at the Federal level so that these two principles can be upheld,” he said.
Anwar said this when delivering his winding-up speech at the PKR National Congress 2026 at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) here today.
Anwar said the choice reflected his own position, while the decision on whether to remain in the Unity Government rested with UMNO and BN leadership.
However, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, indicated that the government and his party were prepared for any eventuality should political developments require them to take a firmer stance.
“Their choice, let them answer for it! As for us, as a party committed to the struggle, we are ready for whatever comes. If we have to go head-on, then we will,” he said.
At the same time, he stressed the need for all parties to exercise wisdom and avoid taking extreme measures that could undermine the stability of the Unity Government.
The prime minister said the formation of the Unity Government itself was the result of political awareness and a commitment to the country, with stability taking precedence over divisive politics.
Anwar also said his personal relationship with Deputy Prime Minister and UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi remained good, and that he believed any differences could be discussed as friends.
On the same development, Anwar said he had yet to hear any negative views at the Federal level regarding the cooperation, in contrast to the situation at the state level.
Using the Malay proverb ‘Terbakar kampung nampak asap, terbakar hati siapa yang tahu’, meaning that while signs of trouble may be visible, what lies beneath the surface may not be known, Anwar said the reality behind political developments might not always be apparent to the public.
He therefore urged all parties to assess any political move rationally, wisely and in the national interest, and not act hastily or excessively.
The prime minister also thanked DAP, Amanah, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) for supporting the existing cooperation within the Unity Government.
“I thank them. Their request is that we continue this relationship until the end of the term, carry out our duties well, safeguard stability and advance the country’s development and economy,” he said.
-- BERNAMA