Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who expressed his gratitude that the transition of power was done peacefully was also happy that the change in government was not tainted with riots and violence.

“I am grateful that I have a long life and I am able to continue serving the country.

“I am also glad that the change of government was not tainted by riots or violence, even though there were attempts to deny the results of the election.

“This performance is measured based on the ongoing status of 464 initiatives, which are policies and specific actions that is stated in each election pledge,” he said in his special address in conjunction with Pakatan’s first anniversary as Federal Government.

He also listed the appointments of women in high positions as one of the government’s successes and described it as a step forward in empowering Malaysian women.

He highlighted that for the first time in the country’s history, the position of Deputy Prime Minister was held by a woman.

“Besides several important posts in the Cabinet, Malaysia also appointed a female Chief Justice for the first time.

“Bank Negara Malaysia is again helmed by a woman, while other government-linked companies and government departments are also headed by women,” he said.

He also said the Pakatan government has ensured the rule of law was enforced, with clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative and the judiciary.

Dr Mahathir said the pledge to reform draconian and oppressive laws was ongoing.

“We have put a moratorium on the death penalty while we study the views of the people as not everyone agrees that it should be repealed.

“As for the Anti-Fake News Act, we have stopped enforcing it while we wait for the law to be repealed.

“The media has been given freedom and they do not have to wait for directives from leaders in Putrajaya like before,” said Dr Mahathir.

He said the economy continues to grow with signs that investor confidence was increasing.

“We have also fulfilled our promise to recognise the equal partners status of Sabah and Sarawak in Malaysia,” he said.

Specific initiatives have been put in place towards Felda’s recovery, with the government pumping in RM6.23bil to help Felda and its settlers.

The youth, he said, have also been given prominence by the government, with the appointment of the youngest Cabinet minister.

As for housing, Dr Mahathir said the government has set up a National Affordable Housing Council to facilitate the construction of one million affordable houses within two-terms.

“These achievements reflect the government’s commitment to build the nation and fulfil aspirations.

“We have four more years to ensure that all our pledges are fulfilled. We are confident that this can be achieved before the end of this government’s term,” said Dr Mahathir.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/05/10/pm-we-have-fulfilled-3...