Anwar says he won't resign as M'sia PM because he 'didn't steal anyone's money'

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated that he will not step down from his post despite calls for him to resign by the opposition.

According to New Straits Times (NST), Anwar said in his speech at the Teluk Kumbar Civil Complex ceremony near Bayan Lepas, Penang, on Jul. 19 that he will not be resigning.

"I'm not stepping down. I don't steal anyone's money. If I did, I would step down," he said.

Addressed the opposition

In response to the "Turun Anwar" (Step down, Anwar) movement to try to get him to resign, Anwar stated that the people's mandate has to be respected unless changed via legal means, as reported in Sinar Harian.

He also addressed the opposition in his speech, stating that they are free to challenge him through the proper democratic channels, NST reported.

He said that "if they have enough numbers, they can bring a vote (of no confidence)" or they can "pull support from any member of Parliament to support them".

He adds that if he loses, "[he] will step down nicely", and that if he wins, the opposition "can wait until the next election".

Stressed importance of maintaining peace

According to NST, Anwar also expressed that maintaining peace in the country is important, noting that many other countries in the region are "struggling".

He also addressed the recurring allegations against him, stating that the old issues related to him are no longer relevant, especially after nearly three years in office.

He said that his previous allegations have all been clarified and that his stance remains consistent in rejecting the abuse of power.

Anwar further added that he will not be defending anyone guilty of wrongdoing, stating that "if there are leaders who possess a net worth of RM100 million (S$30.2 million), they need to come forward and explain, answer for themselves (if investigated)".

According to The Star, Anwar has informed Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul to allow a motion of no-confidence against him if it was raised in parliament on Jul. 21.

"On this first day of Parliament, I wait for the motion of no-confidence vote," Anwar said.

Top photo via Anwar Ibrahim/Facebook