NIBONG TEBAL: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reminded Malaysians that while peaceful protests are a right in any democratic nation, actions that incite hatred and division undermine national unity and hinder progress.

He said this is especially so if the incitement is along racial or religious lines.

Speaking at the national-level Unity Week 2025 celebration at Batu Kawan Stadium, Anwar addressed ongoing demonstrations calling for his resignation, acknowledging that public dissent is a legitimate part of democracy.

“This is a democratic country. If people want to express dissatisfaction through protests, that is their right. I will not stop them,” he said on Saturday (July 19).

However, Anwar drew a firm line between peaceful protest and attempts to sow discord.

“Acts of protest, defamation, and inciting hatred will not solve problems. Instead, they will only provoke anger among the people and prevent us from moving forward,” he said.

Anwar said that political discourse must remain civil and constructive and warned that divisive rhetoric could fracture the country’s social fabric.

He stated that those in positions of power should prioritise the needs and welfare of the people by addressing pressing issues and ensuring that no community, regardless of race, is left behind.

Earlier, at the launching ceremony of the Tunas Madani and JKPSB Housing Project at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Penang Branch in Permatang Pauh, Anwar revealed that an announcement aimed at addressing the rising cost of living is expected next week.

He said the Finance Ministry is in the final stages of refining several proposals that could be implemented immediately to help ease the burden on the people and tackle pressing economic concerns.