PUTRAJAYA — Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Transport Minister Anthony Loke to remain in his position despite the latter’s recent resignation submission, which was linked to disagreements over the treatment of former prime minister Najib Razak.

Speaking at the Transport Ministry on October 14, during the distribution of a one-time financial aid of RM1,000 (approximately S$341) to drivers under the Budget 2027 initiative, Anwar emphasized that the decision to grant Najib house arrest instead of continuing jail time was made under constitutional provisions by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, not by the prime minister. He encouraged Loke to continue his ministerial duties until Najib’s house arrest commences.

Loke had resigned on September 28 in protest against the Pardons Board’s approval for Najib to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. The resignation was intended to take effect once Najib’s house arrest began. However, Anwar expressed his desire for Loke to stay on in his role, citing the need for principled leadership focused on the welfare of ordinary Malaysians.

“This is not merely praise because Loke is here today,” Anwar said. “Why should a good person like him have to quit? Those who should leave are those involved in corruption.”

Addressing critics in Parliament who dismissed the government’s efforts and the Budget as ineffective, Anwar defended the budgeting process. He underscored the complexity of addressing the needs of various groups, particularly highlighting the struggles of padi farmers in Kedah and taxi drivers in Johor. He acknowledged that a leader could not solve all problems immediately but must demonstrate genuine concern for the public.

The financial aid distributed is aimed at supporting approximately 38,000 taxi and hire-car drivers, as well as 15,000 school bus drivers facing challenges linked to rising fuel and operating costs. The RM91.2 million fund was sourced from bidding on special H-series vehicle registration numbers.

Anwar noted that while the government must balance revenue collection with public assistance—funding essential services like education and healthcare—targeted measures are necessary for sectors with unique difficulties. He pledged attention to the taxi industry’s specific needs, seeking solutions to ease their operational burdens.

The government’s aid initiative marks the first disbursement under Budget 2027, demonstrating its effort to address the socioeconomic pressures faced by key transport workers.