Anwar questions PN’s priorities after Tabung Haji RCI walkout

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim questioned whether the opposition, particularly Perikatan Nasional (PN), was more concerned with his absence from a special Dewan Rakyat sitting or the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report findings regarding Tabung Haji. The RCI examined issues related to the management of the pilgrimage fund.

In a statement, Anwar asked whether the opposition preferred debating his absence or the RCI report findings, emphasizing that the issue involves millions of depositors, including Malaysians who saved diligently for Hajj. He highlighted various groups, such as fishermen, farmers, teachers, police personnel, soldiers, and retirees, questioning if their interests were being overlooked amid political disputes.

Anwar accused the opposition, led by PAS, of betraying the Malays and Muslims, despite their reliance on Tabung Haji savings. He accused some within the opposition of seeking to capitalize on political drama rather than addressing genuine concerns.

The Prime Minister's remarks followed PN's decision to walk out of the special sitting when their request to postpone it was rejected by Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul. PN chief whip Takiyuddin Hassan sought the postponement, arguing that Anwar's presence was crucial for a comprehensive explanation of the RCI report. However, Speaker Johari allowed the sitting to proceed, with Dr Zulkifli Hasan presenting the briefing.

Anwar was absent after undergoing surgery for a para-umbilical hernia and is expected to remain under medical observation for two days.