Speaking at PKR’s 27th Reformasi anniversary here today, Anwar, who is also the party president, criticised certain opposition leaders, whom he said had resorted to exploiting religion to attack the government.

“I rarely comment on individuals, but when I heard an MP claim that ‘our dignity has been tarnished’, I had to ask, during their time in government, when PAS was part of the administration, was gambling reduced or increased? The reality tells a different story,” he said.

Anwar said he was open to criticism made in good faith, to improve morals in line with the Madani concept, but rejected any accusation portraying the government as being anti-Islam.

“Where are we against Islam? We have increased allocations for Islamic development, supported tahfiz schools, and provided opportunities for huffaz students to further their studies at technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutes,” he said.

Anwar also compared his administration to the previous Perikatan Nasional government, which he said had failed to strengthen the Islamic agenda, and had increased the number of special draws instead.

“Compare the Madani government with PN. What Islamic programmes did it introduce through the education ministry? Gambling activities increased, with the number of special draws raised to 22.

“PAS should not be criticising because the increase (in draws) took place during its time in government,” he said.

Anwar said his government will continue to uphold Islamic values through clean and just governance, while safeguarding the people’s welfare and wellbeing.

Also present were Melaka PKR chief Shamsul Iskandar Akin and PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh.