Dr M promises to hold weekly press conferences

PUTRAJAYA: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad rarely shies away from the media and now he wants to meet with them every week.

Helming the government for a second time, the Prime Minister has promised weekly press conferences to keep in touch with journalists and update them on issues after chairing the weekly Cabinet meeting.

“We normally like to tell the press and keep in touch with them so you will receive news directly from us. You will get actual information on things we want to tell you.

“If we don’t (have a press conference), you (press) will go around making up all kinds of fake news. Since we want to abolish the Anti-Fake News Act, then we can’t catch you,” he said with a smile.

Asked to describe the first Cabinet meeting he chaired since he left office in 2003, Dr Mahathir said it was a good meeting.

“It was wonderful. Everyone contributed (ideas). I allowed them to speak to show them I am not a dictator,” he said to laughter from ministers at the press conference.

The Prime Minister said the remaining 12 Cabinet positions would be filled as soon as possible.

On the appointment of Datuk Seri Mohd Shukri Abdull as the new chief commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Dr Mahathir said he was chosen due to his experience in investigating 1MDB.

“The past government did not like the work he did. We know about this and we are of the opinion that he is the most suitable person to lead the commission,” he said.