PETALING JAYA: The unity government will uphold the monarchy, ensure the well-being of the people and will not sideline any states, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In his congratulatory speech to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah at Istana Negara on Monday (June 5) in conjunction with the celebration of His Majesty's official birthday, Anwar credited the idea of a unity government to the King's wisdom.
He also said that economic recovery as well as improving public amenities such as schools and clinics will take priority during his term as Prime Minister.
He further stated that the harmony of the country to ensure political stability remained the focus of the government of the day.
Anwar, on behalf of the government, also prayed that the King, Queen and the entire Royal Family remain blessed with grace, guidance, health and prosperity.
"On behalf of the government and the people, I congratulate Your Highness in conjunction with your official birthday," said Anwar.
He added that the monarchy must be cared for as an institution and said that the government will not compromise or allow the monarchy to be mocked or criticised in the name of freedom.
"The government will defend and ensure that appropriate action is taken on anyone threatening the monarchy and the supremacy of the Federal Constitution," said Anwar.
"The unity government initiated by Your Highness' wisdom has strengthened togetherness and created political stability, which led to the economic growth, confidence of domestic and foreign investors," he added.
Anwar then said that this stability has determined sustainable governance and guaranteed the future of the well-being of the people.
"On behalf of the Cabinet, I repeat my determination to work as a team and further strengthen consensus so that there is no cluster of states which are marginalised or left out," said Anwar.
He stated that Budget 2023 focused on food security, digital economy, the role of the small-medium enterprises and put a stop to hard-core poverty.
"The wise economic efforts by the Cabinet, civil service and the private sector have created a Gross Domestic Product growth of 5.6%. A total of RM71.4bil was attained in the first quarter of 2023," said Anwar.
He pointed out that the National Industrial Plan would be launched in August with the half-term 12th Malaysian Plan in September and the Budget 2024 in October.
"All these would be carried out while Your Highness will still be on the throne. Besides the efforts to economic recovery, the unity government would focus on efforts to handle the costs of living, inflated prices and ensure food security," said Anwar.
He added that the Payung Rahmah, Aidilfitri Carnival, entrepreneurship and social innovations such as People's Income Initiative have been received well by the public
This is the fifth time the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah have celebrated the King's official birthday with Malaysians since he ascended to the throne.
