KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 8 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that he will continue to lead the country despite rumours of a second "Turun Anwar" rally being planned.

While saying he would not stop the gathering, Utusan Malaysia reported Anwar as saying that any shortcomings during his three-year tenure as Malaysia's leader should not be used merely as grounds for criticism or ridicule.

"Are there weaknesses? Of course, there are. Under Anwar's leadership as prime minister, are there no weaknesses? That's not true - there are weaknesses.

"Are there things I haven't done (as Prime Minister)? Yes, there are. There's still much that I've yet to accomplish.

"So, correct me, criticise me, and advise me - but do it sensibly...