KUALA LUMPUR – The current criticism over his handling of “contentious internal affairs” is uncalled for as the decisions were made according to the country’s laws, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said he cannot intervene in decisions made by the attorney-general (AG), especially the charges brought against those allegedly insulting the royalty.
“When a person is deemed to be abusive of the rulers, then the charge is preferred by the AG. That is the law,” he said in an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour.
“Until we are able to amend the law, then it persists. I cannot be criticised for the persecution, it is purely the decision (of the AG).”
Anwar added that the criticism would have been valid if it were him taking action against those who lambasted him.
Otherwise, he said, “We have to deal with it”.
He expressed similar sentiments over the discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) on his deputy, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, saying he cannot intervene and instruct the AG to change his decision.
On the supposed “threats” of jail time following the ban on Swatch’s Pride watches, Anwar said the law applies against open public display of LGBTQ+ elements.
Nonetheless, he said the action should not lead to harassment of the LGBTQ+ community, despite the low public acceptance.
“I cannot defend all the actions of the enforcement (agencies). Of course, (I would like to see a change).
“(However), I have to respect the consensus of the people, but it should not be seen to be harassment.”
Meanwhile, Anwar said Asean nations will uphold their centrality and maintain excellent ties with China and the United States, adding that they will not take sides between the two leading nations.
He also described China as an important neighbour and trading nation, and the US as a long-term friend that boosted Malaysia’s development.
Nonetheless, he suggested that the US could be more proactive in retaining its relationship with Malaysia, as it has been observed that the bilateral relationship has weakened in favour of other nations.
Lastly, when asked about his time in prison, Anwar said it taught him various lessons, although it was not “a bed of roses”.
“What have I learnt that is important? The meaning of freedom, the value of democracy, and the need for compassion. In a country, we must respect the rule of law, and people’s basic right to express themselves.
“In a sense, I am more of a democrat who believes in the values of human rights more than before I was arrested, charged, and imprisoned.”
He had previously been interviewed by Amanpour – in 2014 when he was the opposition leader.
Amanpour interviewed Anwar once again in May 2018, after his royal pardon. – September 23, 2023