“I agree with YB Pendang’s views that as soon as nomination day occurs, (government machinery) cannot be used,” he told the Dewan Rakyat during Prime Minister’s Question Time.

“If there is proof that any minister or government agency used government machinery during campaigning, which contravenes the Cabinet’s decision (on the matter), disciplinary action must be taken.”

However, Anwar said announcements related to the continuation of projects made before nomination day were not an issue.

The prime minister was responding to a supplementary question from Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang) on statements made by deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi during the recent Sungai Bakap by-election.

Zahid said the unity government would carry out two projects – the reconstruction of a Tamil vernacular school and a senior citizens activity centre – in Sungai Bakap if Pakatan Harapan won the by-election.

Electoral watchdog Bersih subsequently lodged a report on the matter.

Zahid however defended his announcements, citing existing proposals for the Tamil school and the redirection of previous allocations for other purposes.