FORMER prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has dubbed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim the “Bapa FDI” or “Father of Foreign Direct Investment”, in a biting Facebook post yesterday (July 4).
Welcoming Italy’s announced RM8.13bil investment, Dr Mahathir quipped, “Wait for France and Brazil, more billions coming.”
He claimed RM680bil in FDI has been declared under Anwar but sarcastically noted that Malaysians “cannot see it because the factories are invisible”.
He added, “We want more visits to foreign countries so that more invisible FDI will come.”
Dr Mahathir concluded that while the wealthy pay less tax, the poor ultimately suffer from these grand but hollow announcements.
On taxes, Dr Mahathir teased: “In the meantime, Mahakaya has to pay tax. Not the Mahamiskin. Somehow indirectly the miskin suffers.”
Last week, Anwar announced that Malaysia secured RM8.13bil in potential investments during his three-day official visit to Italy.
The deals cover petrochemicals, machinery, electronics, and oil and gas services. Anwar also discussed defence purchases, including maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters, and naval vessels from Italy.
He met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to strengthen ties in energy, renewable sectors, and defence and urged recognition of Malaysia’s sustainable palm oil certification.
Additionally, he pushed for progress on the Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement. Anwar’s European tour will continue with visits to France and Brazil to further boost trade and economic cooperation. — July 5, 2025
