Post-retirement Dr M could be given special role, says Anwar

Anwar Ibrahim is open to the prospect of creating a special position for Dr Mahathir Mohamad after he succeeds the latter as prime minister.

The transition is scheduled to take place in two years, but Mahathir has repeatedly indicated that the timeframe is flexible, which ignited speculation about Anwar's political future.

Speaking to Channel News Asia, Anwar said creating a special role similar to that of a senior minister or minister mentor in Singapore would not be “problematic” if ties between him and Mahathir remained cordial.

“Mahathir has always said to me: 'You retire, retire.'

“But we are open – as long as the relations are not only cordial but working relations based on trust, I don’t foresee that as problematic at all," he added.

However, Anwar believes that Mahathir, 93, would not be keen on remaining in government at that point.

“I don't believe – after extensive discussions with Mahathir – he's interested to have a position in government.

“But I think we should utilise his expertise and experience to assist and formulate some of our policies and even assist to probably help in explaining or establishing contacts locally, domestically and internationally,” he added.

At present, Anwar said he is committed to supporting Mahathir and assisting the prime minister in reforming the nation.

“Although I'm leading a party with significant numbers of MPs in Parliament, my position is very clear.

“You have the prime minister, you should give the support, you give the latitude and we give him the undertaking that the entire party and the machinery are with him in effecting reforms," he added.

Pulling out of mega projects

Responding to a question, Anwar also backed Mahathir's decision to cancel several projects involving China firms, saying that a review was needed based on two reasons.

"(Malaysia's) financial condition doesn't warrant us to embark on a massive mega project.

"Number two, it's not a matter of Chinese investment, it's what we suspect as dubious deals within the former administration and specific companies.

“What needs to happen is, for example, scrap then relook at it. If it is deemed to be important infrastructure then this can be considered later. But Mahathir made the right decision, giving the right signal," he added.

On the same note, Anwar said it was also necessary to defer the KL-Singapore High-Speed Rail project.

The PKR president-elect said he had met Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and former prime minister Goh Chok Tong during his recent visit to Singapore, and they understood Malaysia’s position.

"I've given categorical assurance that nothing will stop us in trying, attempting to forge sound, effective, better relations with Singapore.

“There are of course some serious contentious issues that must be dealt with, but notwithstanding that, the trade, investments, bilateral relations must continue," Anwar added. - Mkini