JELEBU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he was shocked by the relentless attacks against DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke during the Negri Sembilan election campaign.

He described Loke as as an honest and hardworking leader.

He said Loke was being unfairly targeted despite having a proven record in government and questioned the motives behind attempts to discredit him.

“I was surprised. Every day they attack Loke. In other places, everything is blamed on Anwar. But here in Negri Sembilan, everything is Loke’s fault.

“What kind of people are they? Did he steal money? Did he grab land? Did he take projects? Is he lazy? Hasn’t he performed well as a minister?”

Anwar was speaking at the “Majlis Minum Petang Bersama PMX” programme in Simpang Durian.

Loke, who is contesting the Chennah seat under Pakatan Harapan, also attended the event.

Anwar attributed the attacks to jealousy and an attempt to replace a leader with a strong track record with those whose records were weaker.

The PH chairman also rejected attempts to identify Loke solely based on his ethnicity, saying leaders should be judged by their integrity, competence and commitment to serving Malaysians.

“If I want to choose an Orang Asli representative, I choose the best one. If I choose a Malay leader, I choose someone who is trustworthy, not someone who abuses power.

“The same goes for Chinese leaders. I choose the one who is more capable, more trustworthy and who works for the people.”

Anwar said he had worked alongside Loke for decades and had witnessed his commitment since his early days in the Reformasi movement.

“I did not get to know him only this year. We have struggled together for decades. When I first fought for Reformasi, he had just graduated from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and joined the movement.

“At that time, neither of us knew we would one day become ministers (together), but we continued the struggle because we believed in bringing change,” he said.

Anwar described Loke as a Malaysian leader who consistently supported policies benefiting all communities.

“Whenever I spoke about strengthening Islam, improving education for Malays, hostels or assistance for Mara, he never once objected.

“He also speaks up for Orang Asli, Malays and the Chinese community. That is what a Malaysian leader does,” he said.

He urged voters to support Loke, saying the transport minister had demonstrated integrity and dedication in serving both the government and the people.

“Loke may be Chinese, but he is a Malaysian leader who is respected and plays an important role in this country. Support him,” he said