Fuel Duel - Will It Become A Reality?

KUALA LUMPUR: A “fuel duel” has been set up.

Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek and PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will face off over the recent fuel price increase.

And it may be shown live on television.

Debate organiser Agenda Daily has received confirmation from both men that they will participate in the debate at 9pm at the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka on July 15. The topic is “Hari Ini Membentuk Kerajaan, Esok Turun Harga Minyak.” (Form a Government today and reduce the price of oil tomorrow). - The Star.

It was said that Ahmad Shabery agreed to the debate as he felt that it was his responsibility to explain government policies to the people. The debate is suggested to be aired live over RTM but however negotiations were going on for the debate to be aired over other channels too. The debate is organised by Agenda Daily.

According to Agenda Daily editor Hanafiah Man, the debate will be of the US presidential election format.

Most Malaysians will be excited to see for the first time an open debate like this but I doubt the government will give the thumb up for it to be telecast live. The government will see it as an opportunity for Datuk Seri Anuar as a screen test after for 10 years Malaysian did not see him perform live on stage and this the time to show his prowess to those who have not seen him. The calibre between both individual to me is quite a distance apart with DSAI's experience and his international exposure. If Ahmad Shabery is pinned during the debate it will reflect the governments ability to lead a country. So, the live telecast will not be shown.

It is expected to be attended by only 300 guest.