The opposition has sarcastically suggested that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim consider switching careers and become a dancer, as they voiced dissatisfaction over the Malaysia-US reciprocal trade agreement.
Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin stressed that Perikatan Nasional MPs were not envious of Anwar, who was seen dancing while welcoming US President Donald Trump and again during the Asean Summit gala dinner recently.
“What I find strange is that the prime minister was happily dancing - hey, if you enjoy yourself, that’s your business. We’re not jealous of you dancing, not even when you were dancing with Trump while welcoming him.
“In terms of decorum as the highest-ranking person (the prime minister) at an official event (gala dinner), you got up and danced while several top leaders were seated next to you.
“Why would (the opposition) be jealous… seeing you dance? The people aren’t jealous either - some enjoyed it, some didn’t," the Larut MP said.
Hamzah, joined by a group of PN lawmakers, made the remarks during a press conference today after Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz briefed the Dewan Rakyat on the new trade pact with the US.
Footage of Trump’s arrival in Malaysia a few days earlier drew public attention, amassing over 21.5 million views across multiple platforms.
Welcomed with a traditional performance at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Trump was seen joining in the dance, with Anwar matching his steps - a gesture that sparked both praise and criticism online.
A matter of dignity
Elaborating, Hamzah said the opposition merely sought to question the trade agreement, particularly Article 3.3, which deals with digital trade.
“I want to tell the prime minister - we’re not jealous that you could dance with Trump at the airport or during official government events.
“What we’re questioning is the agreement - we’re questioning the dignity of the government, the dignity of the nation. That’s what we’re raising.
“If you just feel like dancing, then change your profession. You could be a good dancer. I think Malaysia needs good dancers for dance competitions - maybe we can ask you to represent the country,” the Bersatu deputy president quipped.
The signed agreement maintains Malaysia’s reciprocal tariff rate at 19 percent, while also securing continued exemptions for certain products.
These include semiconductors and other electronic components as among Malaysia’s key exports to the US.
- Mkini
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.