Me, a gambling boss? I cut down special draws, says Anwar

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim responded to critics who labeled him as the "gambling boss" by stating that his administration had decreased the number of special lottery draws from 22 to just eight per year. This move, he claimed, demonstrated the government's commitment to curbing gaming activities.

Anwar, who serves as both the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, questioned why he was being criticized for this reduction, asking his opponents to first examine their own actions. He made these remarks during the launch of the Skim Usahawan Bangkit Permatang Pauh in Penanti, Kuala Lumpur.

The Prime Minister's comments seem to be a reaction to the Federal Court's decision dismissing a bid by Kedah's chief minister, Sanusi Mohd Nasif, to overturn a ruling that restricted the state from renewing licences for pool betting and lottery operators. Sanusi argued that the final decision on gambling activities in Kedah now lies with Anwar. He further warned that Kedahans would "curse" him if gambling activities were permitted to resume in the state.

Anwar also expressed his frustration over billions of ringgit intended for the public being wasted due to corruption, citing the Tabung Haji and Felda scandals. He criticized those who oppose his administration's legal actions against those involved in these cases.

Anwar acknowledged that people were unhappy with his strict approach and arrests, but emphasized that he was not the one causing the trouble. He emphasized his intention to stop the misappropriation of funds and return them to the public, stating that he had been entrusted by the people with the responsibility of managing these funds.