‘Saya tauke judi? Saya kurangkan jumlah cabutan khas’, tegas Anwar

Perdana Menteri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly rejected the nickname 'joker gambler' directed at him, emphasizing his efforts to reduce the frequency of the number prediction lottery from 22 times a year to just eight. As the Finance Minister, he stated that this reduction demonstrates his management in curbing gambling activities. Initially, the order was 22 times, but under my leadership, it has been reduced to eight times.

Is it enough? No, it is not enough. Is it satisfactory? No, it is not satisfactory. But can you attack me? First, reflect upon yourself, said Anwar at the launch of the Permatang Pauh Entrepreneur Boost Scheme in Penanti. He referred to the government's policy from 2020 to 2022 that increased the frequency of number prediction lottery draws from eight to 22 times a year before his management reduced it to eight times.

His statement was seen as a response to Kedah Chief Minister Sanusi Nor's recent criticism after the Federal Court dismissed his petition for redress against the decision to cancel the state's action to halt the issuance and renewal of permits for number prediction lottery operators. Sanusi stated that the decision on whether gambling activities are permitted in Kedah now lies with Anwar.

He also warned Anwar of facing anger from the people of Kedah if he allows gambling activities to resume in the state. In other developments, Anwar expressed regret over the billions of ringgit that should have been used for the benefit of the people but were lost due to corruption, citing the scandal of the Hajj Endowment Fund and Felda.

He also criticized critics for attacking his legal action against parties involved in these two scandals, emphasizing his efforts to ensure accountability and integrity in the management of public funds.