PROPOSED 10-YEAR TERM LIMIT FOR PM IN LINE WITH REFORM FRAMEWORK – ANWAR

KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said the proposal to limit the tenure of the Prime Minister to a maximum of 10 years aligns with the vision and reform policy framework emphasised in his 'Membangun Negara MADANI' initiative and is nothing new.

The Prime Minister's senior press secretary, Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, said the move aims to ensure continuity in clean governance, a more structured system and to prevent the centralisation of power, which could lead to corruption and abuse.

He also noted that several countries, including neighbouring Indonesia, have already implemented such an approach.

“Additionally, limiting a leader’s tenure as Prime Minister takes into account today’s and the future’s geopolitical landscape, which requires commitment from all parties to allow fresh leadership and the grooming of new national leaders,” he said.

He made these remarks during the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) daily briefing, which was broadcast live on Anwar Ibrahim’s Facebook page and the PMO Malaysia Facebook page today.

Tunku Nashrul said the Prime Minister also reminded certain opposition members not to exploit this well-intentioned proposal for their narrow race-based political agenda.

He stressed that the nature and role of the Prime Minister’s position are already clearly outlined in the Federal Constitution.

He added that the proposal to limit the tenure does not contradict these fundamental principles but is instead a crucial step towards strengthening the country’s democratic maturity.

At the same time, Anwar urged any Members of Parliament questioning the matter to read before making reckless criticisms.

"Read and digest Anwar Ibrahim’s book, 'Membangun Negara Madani'. Refer to page 181 under the topic 'Dasar Keutamaan Untuk Malaysia Yang Lebih Baik',” he said.

Tunku Nashrul said the Prime Minister has therefore encouraged a healthy and responsible debate on the matter, focusing on future challenges, while also inviting all parties to provide input towards a transparent and fair system.

In today's briefing, Tunku Nashrul also shared updates on Anwar’s visits to Selangor, Perak and Negeri Sembilan last week, where the Prime Minister once again called for continued cooperation and new synergies between the federal and state governments.

He noted that the Prime Minister believes such meetings and discussions are crucial in streamlining and improving services for the people.

Key areas of focus included public welfare, such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, flood mitigation and road projects, along with other issues that will continue to be monitored by the relevant agencies.

He also announced that Anwar’s next visits this week will be to Penang, Terengganu and Sabah.

-- BERNAMA