Return of Dr M-Anwar pair warms hearts

PETALING JAYA: The welcome mat has been rolled out for freed PKR de factor leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is expected to positively impact the political landscape.

The social media was flooded with messages congratulating him on his release.

Some viewed it as a return to the days of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad charting the nation’s path with Anwar on his side.

“The Mahathir-Anwar com- bination is the best possible one to lead the country out of the authoritarian and corruption-ridden era that has marked BN’s and (Datuk Seri) Najib Razak’s rule,” said political analyst Dr Lim Teck Ghee.

“All indications are that the two should be able to forge a better partnership than they had in the past. Together they can restore confidence in the economy among local and foreign investors and help lead the nation to a brighter future.”

Lim said Anwar has a large international following which is useful in bringing back the goodwill and respect that Najib squandered.

“But for now, he will need to spend more time addressing the religious and racial extremism in the country.

“Anwar will also be needed to deal with the threats that PAS poses with its hardline Islamic politics,” Lim said.

There is concern over the political developments in Sabah and Sarawak. Anwar can attend to this to ensure they do not destabilise the nation, he added.

Pakatan Harapan’s Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman said it is time for Mahathir and Anwar to rebuild the nation together.

“Two great leaders. We can build a better nation together since Anwar is released. Justice is served,” said the Muar MP.

PKR vice-president Tian Chua tweeted: “His freedom brings a happy reunion @DrWanAzizah @n_izzah & their whole family. More significantly, the release of Anwar marks the beginning of the new era for Malaysia where democracy and civil rights will be celebrated.”

Lawyers for Liberty representative Eric Paulsen said: “Finally @anwaribrahim is freed! Unjustly jailed on trumped-up charges, he will now lead a new democratic Malaysia with PM Dr Mahathir.”