PM Anwar urges respectful public discourse, highlights Madani reforms, civil service role and ongoing economic progress
PUTRAJAYA: People are free to express their opinions, including dissatisfaction, but it must be done with understanding and respect, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at the Rancakkan Madani event, he highlighted the government’s commitment to listening to public feedback while continuing its programmes under the Madani administration.
He also expressed regret that some of the government’s policies and achievements had not reached the rakyat as intended.
“I want to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved, but what reaches the public often gets drowned in noise or criticism.
“In a free society and on social media some comments aim to belittle rather than build.”
Anwar said discussions with key officials including deputy prime ministers Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof as well as 140 new initiatives officially announced and 167 in progress are not all widely publicised.
He called on civil servants to uphold professionalism and support government policies even if they hold differing personal views.
“You may have differing opinions but your duty is to convey what the government is doing and to offer constructive suggestions.”
He emphasised that the success of the Madani governance agenda depends heavily on the commitment, integrity and cooperation of the civil service.
Anwar said Malaysia’s recent gains, including 5.2% economic growth in the third quarter, rising investments and expanding trade, are the result of close collaboration between political leaders and public administration.
He said key social programmes such as the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah cash aid and the near eradication of hardcore poverty also demonstrate that public service delivery is functioning effectively.
On specific development projects, Anwar pointed to ongoing efforts in Sabah, including electricity, water supply and roads, which are progressing but not yet complete.
“People sometimes grow impatient waiting for results but progress is being made, and will be phased in early next year.”
He also addressed longstanding concerns within the civil service, particularly about stagnant benefits and delayed pension adjustments.
Anwar reaffirmed the Unity government’s commitment to improving remuneration and retirement benefits, adding that recent allocations of RM10 billion this year and RM18 billion next year represent the most significant improvements in over a decade.
He said institutional reforms, including the Fiscal Responsibility Act, strengthened parliamentary oversight.
He added that the upcoming Ombudsman system is essential to build a more transparent and accountable administration.
“Change cannot happen without a clear vision and a committed civil service. Our progress is a shared effort, not the work of one person or one ministry.
“We want a government that is stable, responsible and responsive. The civil service is at the heart of that goal.”
