KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took a swipe at an opposition member of parliament for allegedly failing to read his own party leader’s statement before making accusations in the Dewan Rakyat.
Anwar was interrupted while explaining the government’s intention to reduce the deficit to three per cent, saying that this could be achieved by increasing revenue without burdening the rakyat.
“This is why we have to rationalise subsidies, for electricity and fuel, including RON95, without placing a burden on the rakyat. We’ve already announced that these prices will go down.
“But when it comes to foreigners, I heard an MP defending them, and I find it hard to understand. Am I now expected to become a representative for the foreigners (Bangladeshi and Rohingya), to explain why they are being burdened?” Anwar chided.
The exchange occurred during Prime Minister’s Question Time when Hulu Terengganu MP Datuk Rosol Wahid stood up and challenged Anwar, asking: “Can you name the MP who defended foreigners? Who among us?”
In a sharp reply, Anwar accused Rosol of not having read the statement issued by Pagoh MP Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
“Next time, read first before coming to Parliament. Don’t just attack without facts.
“If this was outside, I wouldn’t have to answer, but here I will answer. Read the statement from the MP for Pagoh on why foreigners are burdened. Because foreigners also contribute to the country.
“Do your homework before coming to Parliament,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
