Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim defended the vote of confidence yesterday, saying it was needed to prove his legitimacy after Muhyiddin Yassin (PN-Pagoh) questioned it.

He then said he is open to criticism from anyone and will open his ears, even if it is painful to hear.

However, quoting William Shakespeare, the premier said at times criticism is like "a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing".

He said one example is remarks by Opposition Leader Hamzah Zainudin, whom he accused of launching personal attacks against him.

Hamzah yesterday goaded Anwar to sue a European news outlet, which called the premier a "full-blown homosexual" when reporting on his appointment.

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