Masalah PMX

Perbandingan Lawatan Anwar dan Menteri Terdahulu

A recent WhatsApp message sent to me by a former Umno activist caught my attention. The message read: “Anwar boleh jadi PMX bawah tempurung. Tak payah ke luar negara, buat kerja dalam negara sahaja. Tolak jemputan ketua-ketua negara. Jangan hadir persidangan pemimpin dunia.” The sender, who is not a fan of Anwar Ibrahim, surprisingly defended the former opposition leader, stating that the criticism of Anwar’s foreign trips is unfair.

Penjelasan Lawatan PMX

The sender explained that the PMX’s foreign trips are part of preparations for Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025. The trips aim to personally invite ASEAN leaders to a meeting in 2024, followed by a formal invitation next year. This was further supported by a news article from Astro Awani titled “Pengerusi Asean 2025: Malaysia siap sedia, fokus keterangkuman, perkongsian global-PM”.

Kos Lawatan dan Respons Awal PMX

The cost of the PMX’s trips was RM6 million, sparking controversy among the opposition and non-governmental organizations. The PMX initially claimed that the trips were paid for by a private company, but later provided a breakdown of the expenses and explanations. However, many remain skeptical about the purpose of the trips and the cost involved.

Perbandingan dengan Menteri Terdahulu

The sender drew comparisons between Anwar’s trips and those of previous prime ministers, stating that it is unfair to criticize Anwar for doing the same thing. The PMX’s trips are seen as necessary for the country’s interests and may have long-term benefits.

Langkah Tak Ambil Gaji dan Kos Lawatan

The opposition has criticized Anwar for not taking a salary and the government for paying for his foreign trips. However, the sender argues that Anwar’s decision to forego a salary is unnecessary and that he should take what is due to him as PM. The sender also emphasized that the PMX’s trips are part of his official duties and should not be seen as a personal indulgence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the PMX’s foreign trips is largely unfounded and based on misconceptions. The PMX’s trips are part of his official duties and may have long-term benefits for the country. Rather than criticizing Anwar for doing his job, the opposition should focus on constructive criticism and suggestions for improving the country’s governance.

FAQs

Q: Why is the PMX’s foreign trips controversy?
A: The controversy surrounding the PMX’s foreign trips is largely based on misconceptions and unfair comparisons with previous prime ministers.

Q: What is the purpose of the PMX’s foreign trips?
A: The PMX’s foreign trips are part of preparations for Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 and aim to personally invite ASEAN leaders to a meeting in 2024, followed by a formal invitation next year.

Q: Is it necessary for the PMX to take a salary?
A: The PMX should take what is due to him as PM and not forego a salary.