In a televised Hari Raya greeting, Anwar said Malaysians should discard “old practices and cultures that are detrimental”.

“Forgiveness is a key message in Islam. We all make mistakes. Let’s not be too proud to admit that we are not perfect,” he said.

“Let us take this opportunity to offer sincere apologies (for our mistakes). This is what I want to convey to all Muslims and the Malaysian society as a whole, that is, to seek forgiveness if there were any mistakes in what we have done or said, or if we have hurt the feelings of our friends and relatives.”

Anwar also called on Malaysians to cultivate “dignified values” and work together for the betterment of the country.

He said the country needed the strength of all its people, regardless of ethnicity, and that no one should be sidelined based on race, religion or any other reason.

Anwar added that the current government should learn from the experiences and wisdom of past leaders to avoid making harmful decisions and to foster beneficial outcomes.

“We (the government) do not solely seek recognition and praise, but constructive criticism and admonition are equally crucial for the country’s progress,” he said.