The following is the full interview with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, ahead of the Umno General Assembly which begins today.
Question: We would like to start this interview on your spirit, focus and commitment to this year’s Umno General Assembly, which will be held in a different format, coupled with issues affecting Umno that have been sensationalised on social media.
Answer: I am ready (for the assembly) and all preparations seem to be smooth sailing. I hope we will use this assembly as a platform, where we can strengthen our spirit and the commitment of party members to continue the struggle for Umno, so that it will remain relevant. Umno is the party that can ensure the future of Malaysia, and the party that Malays and Bumiputeras can depend on.
Question: Following issues that have cropped up against the background of the assembly, is the event the most challenging yet for you as Umno president?
Answer: Each assembly has its own challenges, although it is different every time. For example, the Sedition Act was the main issue last year. For this year, it is different. However, if we look at the (political) “temperature”, the political heat this year would be more challenging compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, if we look back at past assemblies that were all the more “hotter” from this year’s event, then I will regard this as part and parcel of politics. As party president I have to face the challenges with perseverance and wisdom so that the party will emerge stronger. Insyaallah.
Question: There is talk that Umno today is neither democratic nor practices freedom of speech. Is this true?
Answer: That is not true, because they (detractors) have forgotten that I was the party president who amended the Umno constitution, where I was picked by 160,000 delegates at the grassroots level. Back then, before the party constitution was amended, those who wanted to contest for the presidency would need (at least ) 63 nominations from the divisions (all 191). Imagine the utter difficulty for anyone who wanted to contest for the post to earn the 63 nominations. Hence, I emboldened myself to repeal the article to make Umno into a more open and democratic party.
I am the party president, elected by (a huge number of) delegates far more than those who were in the Merdeka Hall, or those (elected) under regulations such as contest (nominations) quota and the like. If I want to have an easy way (of retaining power), I would have retained the old constitution. But I am of the stand that Umno should be more open and democratic.
Question: On the assembly’s change of format, concerning how the wings’ assemblies would not be opened by the deputy president (Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin). This has created the perception that the party now “belongs” to you.
Answer: No. That (the opening of wings’ assemblies by respective chiefs) decision which was reached by the party supreme council on (Nov 24) was the wish of the wing chiefs. It means that they (the wing chiefs) have discussed this matter earlier among their exco members and they agreed to forward the proposal to the council. The council saw that it was a matter of convention, not based on the constitution.
What we want to prioritise is the message conveyed at the assembly, and that does not mean that we are restricting members from having discussions or voicing their opinions. What we want (to relay) is the one message which represents the (unified) leadership, so that members would not be muddled in the minds on discerning the party’s direction, objectives and current issues.
This is also because we are facing the an upcoming general election. The party must be united, strong, clear (not haphazard) and solid. So that it our wish, that the assembly be seen as an effort to unify and strengthen the party regardless of the situation.
Question: In this context, how do you see the situation where Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, whom while the party’s deputy president, had nevertheless come out with a number of statements and criticisms against you and the party?
Answer: Just like any other previous presidents and prime ministers before me, I am of the principle that the prime minister and deputy prime minister must be on the same tangent as (even in their respective capacities of ) deputy president and party president.
This is because there is a need to cooperate with the No.2. And if so, we need be on the same direction on what needs to be done, our decisions and within a frame of cooperation which entails honesty and loyalty in charting the party course.
But this does not mean that as a deputy, Muhyiddin could not afford to have differing opinions against mine. I am open in certain forums, (such as) closed-door meetings, between president and his deputy, and we can even disagree. However when we are in public, we need to stand up for the decision made by the party.
I want to stress that this is a basic principle practiced by any organisation, government, body which only adheres to one leader. But that leader must be open-minded, receptive of opinion. And a collective opinion (or stand) must be defended by all in the party.
Question: Among Muhyiddin’s criticisms is the issue of 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB). Was he not given an explanation or was there no available platform for him to obtain an explanation on the issue?
Answer: Members of the Cabinet had already been briefed on the 1MDB issue. And as deputy prime minister, he had a right to summon the 1MDB management, and its board of directors for any additional explanation. As such, there is no reason why he should not have the full information on the 1MDB issue. Even now, we are seeing numerous briefing sessions by the 1MDB chief executive officer, and even without all these, as the DPM he should have been able to obtain extra information and additional explanations.
Question: Did he not ask for an explanation from you?
Answer: We had discussed the 1MDB issue and he had several opinions. I had also explained to him my stand and in the end, as prime minister, I had to make a decision. That was the decision I relayed to the cabinet, which was that we have a rationalisation plan to resolve 1MDB’s problems. 1MDB’s problem is that it had been politicised, not because it didn’t have assets. Yes, it has debts but the assets outweighed the debts.
We have a rationalisation plan; this situation might not have emerged had we been able to launch the IPO in November 2014. But when the sentiments are too negative, when the issue is politicised, the environment became one that isn’t conducive towards inspiring confidence in investors to buy stock and invest in 1MDB.
When we failed to launch the IPO, it meant we could not lessen the debts. When the rationalisation plan was announced, I had said give it time to prove that 1MDB’s problems can be solved, to which the cabinet agreed. We had already seen that there were signs that the issue could be resolved, especially when Edra Global Energy Bhd was sold, thus reducing debt by around RM17 million.
Question: Why is Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad so angry with you? Is it due to 1MDB?
Answer: This I do not know, perhaps you can ask Dr Mahathir himself. From how I see it, it isn’t related to 1MDB. Previously, he had met me and I saw that he had disagreed with many of my decisions, and there were things he had asked me to do which I didn’t do.
To sum it up, Dr Mahathir wants a prime minister who will go along with what he says. If I follow what he says, then maybe I would be a great prime minister.
What more the suggestion to form a Council of Elders, which has never existed in the history of our nation or any nation. There is absolutely no provision in our constitution for this council, which would overrule the cabinet and the supreme council.
It is not that I do not respect him as a statesman, but I hold firm to the principle that I am a prime minister elected by the rakyat. I am also a president elected by the party and I have a right to govern the country and party according to how I feel is the best way for both.
I am not a leader who doesn’t listen to other views and opinions, but at the end of the day, I have to decide on what’s best for the nation and party.
Question: So you will not entertain any continued calls from Dr Mahathir to step down?
Answer: The question of stepping down is one for the party’s as well as the country’s constitution. I strongly believe in the principles of a parliamentary democracy. There are two ways; the first being via elections. This means that when the time comes, it is the rakyat who decides. This means that there are 14, 15 million Malaysians who choose whom will lead, which party should rule, and when the time is right for nominations within the party.
The other way is where we do not adhere to constitutional principles. It is important that we do the former.
Question: If we were to follow what Dr Mahathir has written in his blog, we would know that he often changes his claims, for example the RM42 billion only to later change the figure. Recently in his blog, he had also admitted that his accusations over 1MDB were his own assumptions. Are you worried that there may be Umno members who may fall for his perception game?
Answer: Yes, there may be. We must understand that what Dr Mahathir had mentioned are his opinions, which will remain assumptions unless he furnishes proof. For example, until today, he had yet to be able to furnish credible proof that RM42 billion had disappeared. Even he had admitted that he did not have proof.
If RM42 billion did indeed disappear, it’s unlikely that we could have sold Edra for RM17 billion, or sold of the Tun Razak Exchange land, or receive lucrative offers to develop Bandar Malaysia.
As such, these allegations are without basis, and that is why we are defending what we do. We want to clear 1MDB’s image so that we can correct Malaysia’s image. What has happened can be construed as ‘repetitive damage’, and this is what we must fix with our next steps.
Question: It has been a while since Dr Mahathir had criticised the Opposition, and you appear to be target of his criticisms now. How do you view this?
Answer: As a party member, we should uphold the party’s interests, defend the party and take on the Opposition. But Tun Mahathir appears to be doing the opposite. Now, each time he raises something, we have to explain to the rakyat and party members so that they are not misled.
Alhamdulillah, we recently saw the 2016 Budget approved in Parliament, with even some positive statements coming from the Opposition. There were even some who did not support the Opposition with regards to voting on the Budget in Parliament. This shows that the party we have now has a comfortable majority in Parliament, and we have to be confident that if we can explain clearly to the rakyat and correct the sentiments, there is no reason why we cannot succeed in the coming elections, god willing.
Question: One of the issues played up by Dr Mahathir and the Opposition is the RM2.6 billion issue. We need to know, is your conscience clear on this?
Answer: Yes, absolutely clear. I have not committed any offence, both in law and in manner. Although this had been explained in Parliament by the deputy prime minister, I would like to reiterate on several aspects.
Firstly, the RM2.6 million is neither public funds, nor 1MDB’s money. This was confirmed by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission. Secondly, the identity of the donor has been ascertained. MACC has met them and obtained their statement.
Thirdly, at the time the account was created, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) was informed. As such, there was no intention to lie, as BNM was already told of the account’s existence.
Fourthly, the donors do not expect anything in return, and also do not view it as a bribe. It is a donation, a gift. A donation is not illegal under any legal provision.
Question: Is that why the amount was deposited into your personal account and not elsewhere?
Answer: Yes, that was the donor’s wish. The donation was made to me personally, that is why the account is under my name. But don’t misunderstand; the account bore my name but it was not as if it was a personal account. It just bore my name.
Question: So it was not for your personal use?
Answer: Not to be used according to my whims and fancies. But I have done what I felt what was right with full responsibility. I’m confident that once the investigation runs its course, the truth will emerge in the end. Insyaallah.
Question: Recently, we learnt of a conspiracy to bring you down. But you have chosen not to discuss it at length. Can you share with us on what we can say almost became a reality?
Answer: (Laughs) There are many opinions on this. I do not want to spell it all out as it could depend on several phrases, or even a perception of what had happened. What is important is that I must show that I have committed no wrong. And if I did nothing wrong, it means that I am on the side of truth, not just legally but also morally. That is what’s important to me.
Question: For this assembly, will the attention zooms on economic issues, especially the cost of living, which many have complained to be on the rise?
Answer: Yes. I am very aware and know that this is the main issue to the people. Moreover, if we were to study on the matter, it is an issue bigger than 1MDB and the RM2.6 billion (political donation). (The rising cost of living) is an issue close to the people’s hearts. This issue is linked to the position of our currency. If we take a look from this point of view, (we will know that) it is led by three factors.
First is the significant drop in oil price. Until yesterday, the price floats between US$42 and US$43 per barrel, compared to more than a year ago when it was US$110 per barrel. This has created pressure against our currency.
(Secondly) China’s slow economic growth and the United States’ measures to increase interest rates have affected emerging economies. All of these factors are beyond our control just as the 1997 financial crisis, and the blame should not be pinned on the government.
(In actuality) we went through a worse crisis back then (1997). At least, our economy is growing at least by five per cent, and at least, the number of jobs are can still be increased.
We can still render (financial) assistance to the people through the 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M), and other measures which are still ongoing. The government is doing its best, although I would like to mention here that our national revenue will face a setback by RM30 billion next year, as the oil price drops.
This has limited the government’s capability (to deliver better). That is the only matter that I have to make clear. There is a limit to what we can do (now).
Question: Looking at the Umno general assembly in the one year period since the last assembly, what do you see in relation to the ‘Akujanji’ (pledge) agenda which was given at last year’s general assembly. What has been achieved and what has not been achieved?
Answer: Based on the electoral promise, we have delivered all our promises. Shortly, we will hold an exhibition at the general assembly, outside Dewan Merdeka to portray the achievements based on the past electoral promise which was delivered. For example, our promise with regards to housing, yes it is still in the process, which could not be fully completed in two years but the important thing is the action taken and the commitment which we can see.
Question: In three years’ time we will face the 14th general election. Dr Mahathir is of the view that you are a liability. Are you confident that Umno and BN will win the general election?
Answer: I am still confident, Insyaallah, we will achieve victory. This is because if we look at the alternative which is available now, the Opposition is in chaos. And their leadership is in chaos. And I feel that they too have a problem in determining the leadership to lead them in the coming election.
I acknowledge that our position has dropped a bit due to issues played up by certain quarters. But we still have time for us to put in a strong effort. One of our challenges is the social media. Social media influences the opinion of the people, the people’s thinking and this is one of the biggest challenge which we are facing compared to what we faced in the past.
Question: The call used by Dr Mahathir and Muhyiddin was “save the party” and “to safeguard Umno’s interest” and others. What is your view on this?
Answer: That is their opinion. The fact is that our position has become much better. And I can see from the last two or three days, there are signs of more confidence in the government which is showing positive signs. I am confident that if we can resolve these issues in the near future, our position will become more positive.
I do not consider the current situation as being too comfortable for us. We must have a plan and strategy to improve the situation and move forward. This is what I consider as being my duty to the party, as the party president to ensure that the plan will be implemented effectively.
Question: What is weighing on your mind the heaviest concerning this year’s general assembly?
Answer: I want our party to be solid. I do not want our party to be in a situation which is confused and of not being in the same direction. This does not mean I want to restrict differences of opinion in the party. But unity is important, working as a team is important and if we strengthen our line, I see no reason why Umno cannot continue to be successful.
Question: What is your view of the situation where foreign institutions and foreign investors are more confident in Malaysia, compared to Malaysians themselves. Institutions such as the IMF are giving positive reports on Malaysia, but Malaysians themselves feel that our economic management is lacking?
Answer: People of such views are not in line with the facts. Because if we see bodies such as the World Bank and IMF, as well as rating agencies such as Standard and Poor, Moody’s and Fitch, they do not visit Malaysia for a day or two but for a long period and they meet many quarters, they seek facts, they seek figures and others. Only then do they conclude. All these bodies provide ratings or conclusions, which is either maintain their ratings or increase their ratings to much more positive. There are no steps to downgrade Malaysia.
However, if you hear the voices which are out of sync in the social media and certain other quarters clamouring for negative ratings or for Malaysia to be downgraded, they (the agencies) did not do so. Instead, they praised Malaysia with regards to its economic management.
Question: How is your relationship with the deputy prime minister?
Answer: I am good with Zahid. Both of us have known each other for a long time, (when Zahid and I were) in Umno Youth and as my former political secretary. I view this as being quite important. If the government is to deliver the people’s aspirations, and the promise made to the people, the two most important positions are the prime minister and deputy prime minister, who must cooperate with each in full confidence. That is the key to Malaysia and the government’s success. I am of the view that this is a matter which must exist in the government.
In fact, during Dr Mahathir’s period, we saw that he had taken action several times with regards to his deputy (-ies). I believe that he understands this matter better.
Question: The perception game, if we look at branch level, we have already seen some of them beginning to criticise and urge you to step down. Are you confident that the majority of Umno members are still rational and not trapped in the perception game?
Answer: We have more than 20,000 Umno branches and I believe that majority of them are still confident with the party leadership and the government. What is happening is that many divisions are dissatisfied with the leadership of the division. Maybe there are those who contested at the division level and lost. And those who lost were dissatisfied and were influenced to gather and make statements, to show that they were not satisfied and other things. But if we were to gather, we can gather far any more to support the existing leadership.
Question: How do you as a leader overcome daily pressures in managing the party vessel?
Answer: I shoulder the “amanah” (trust) and I will not let any quarter throw any baseless criticisms which may possess certain motives. There is only one prime minister’s chair. No prime minister is safe from being undermined, as seen from our history. What more in 1987 when Dr Mahathir won by 43 votes, when the Team A and Team B incident took place. So this is not something new. Every leader will face various challenges. This our leadership test, and this also the test which I have go through. Hopefully I will continue to shoulder this “amanah” , with the party’ support. We have many tasks to complete for the party and the nation.
Question: When you became the prime minister six years ago, the foreign media said you were a reformist. But now a repressive, particularly with the new National Security Council Bill, which is said to be targeting not terrorists but the Opposition. Is your reform agenda still on track?
Answer: The reform agenda is still ongoing. There is much more we will undertake in a democratic and open manner such as the abolition of the Internal Security Act. But if an individual threatens to commit a violent act, my responsibility as a country’s leader will be to do everything I am capable of to not allow it.
For example in the US, President (Barack) Obama was criticised over the shooting incident which left 14 people dead in San Bernadino, California, and other incidents such as that which took place in Paris and other incidents.
But Alhamdulillah, in Malaysia no such incidents had occurred in such a manner due to our proactive measures, which is given priority. Do not let any violence take place, because if it takes place, the outcome will be terrible.
Thus, what we have done with the NSC law is to ensure the safety of Malaysians. That is what I am giving priority to. Preemptive measures and proactive measures are needed because we do not take this matter lightly. The threat posed by certain groups from the Southern Philippines is still a reality. A second Lahad Datu incident is not something unlikely, but if we are alert, take proactive measures, we can prevent such a thing from being repeated.
Question: On the cooperation with Pas, many quarters are hoping for Umno and the Islamic party to increase their cooperation with regards to Islamic issues?
Answer: Yes, the unity of the Ummah is given serious attention by the Muslim community and I have stated that this principle is important. If there is a split, the effects will be extremely bad. We know the implications thus, we have to work towards the unity of the Ummah. There are encouraging signs, among them, statements made by the Pas president and the Spiritual leader (Mursyidul Am) can be said to be positive. And in their 2016 Budget vote, they did not support the move to reject it. These are encouraging signs.
Question: It is as though the Pas president and leadership appreciate you more, compared to certain figures in Umno?
Answer: It is because they uphold principles. Islamic principles prohibits bringing down a government in a manner which is not allowed by Islam, including through street protest and others. It is prohibited by Islam. What is voiced by the Pas leadership is in line with Islamic leaders.
Question: How far can this cooperation continue?
Answer: I am open. It is open to the situation. It’s only that we can’t force this thing. Let it come from a place of sincere intentions and let the process take place, as the Westerners say - step by step. However the important this is that we are aware, meaning that Umno and Pas are aware that unity of the Ummah is important for Muslims and Islam.
Question: Is Malaysia too engrossed in politicking, which could affect the country’s development agenda?
Answer: Yes, maybe there is too much politicking, from what we see in Malaysia, particularly those who use social media. What is taking place now is that there is less appreciation of the good things done by the government.
Secondly, there is a tendency by certain quarters to issue negative and contrary views even though they are not experts in the area. They presume themselves to be experts. There are all kinds of opinions issued. We have to be aware that these are views, opinions, not real facts, or the view of the majority.
Question: How do you view your relationship Dr Mahathir; can it be mended?
Answer: With Dr Mahathir, I don’t know. We have to look at the situation. He has come out with views which are too personal. I can accept a difference of opinion when it is with regards to policy and others but it should not be too personal. And I want a leader to look after the interests of the party. That is the most important thing. Do not damage the party.
Question: Do you feel dejected (jauh hati) by Dr Mahathir’s disposition today, when in the past you were with him through thick and thin?
Answer: Yes, because while we were in the government, he said that we must appreciate the people who are no longer in the government. When we are out of the government, we should support those in the government. He had repeated it many times. I met him on many matters. He does not practice what he voiced out when he was in the government previously.
Question:What is your advice to the delegates?
Answer: I hope the delegates will draw confidence from the assembly’s atmosphere. It will be given microscopic attention not only by the people outside the assembly but nations abroad. Thus, our party’s image is important. We must show that the image of the party is one which is in power. This means we are a responsible party member, safeguarding the interest of our party. We also want our party to be admired and respected by both friend and foe.
** To watch the full video of the interview, go to http://www.newsplus.my/live-tv