Cooperation within Cabinet remains strong, says PM

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed today that the cooperation among Cabinet members remained robust, despite reports suggesting a strained relationship between him and Deputy Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Anwar highlighted that political stability and strong Cabinet cooperation were vital for guiding the nation's direction, according to Utusan Malaysia.

He acknowledged that the government's commendable performance was due to clear policies, stability, and effective collaboration, despite occasional appearances of discord. Speaking at a staff assembly, Anwar emphasized that the government should continue leveraging this stability to advance its plans and policies for national benefit.

He cautioned against complacency, urging all parties to maintain their efforts to enhance the government's performance. Bloomberg's earlier report alleged that the tension stemmed from Zahid's decision for Barisan Nasional to challenge Pakatan Harapan in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan elections, exacerbated by DAP's push for institutional reforms by year-end, while Anwar still required BN's backing to achieve a two-thirds majority in the Dewan Rakyat.

However, Zahid denied these claims, asserting that his relationship with DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook remained excellent and that Cabinet meetings concluded as scheduled, contradicting Bloomberg's account. He stressed that the unity government would continue till the end of its term.