JOHOR BARU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has defended the extension of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief, stating that under his leadership, the agency has been bold in taking action against influential figures involved in corruption.
He emphasized that Tan Sri Azam Baki should be given the space to pursue Tuns, Tan Sri, and Datuk Seri who have plundered the country.
"The MACC is now daring and going after the taukehs involved in billions in corruption. Those who steal from the country should return it to the people," he said at the launch of the National PKR Congress here on Friday (May 23).
Anwar assured that a replacement for Azam would be found in due course.
During his hour-long speech, Anwar also emphasized his government's commitment to the rule of law.
"I believe in the independence of the judiciary and the appointment of judges," he said, adding that he has not interfered with judicial decisions, unlike past practices where judges acted at the whims of the executive.
He touched on various issues, including the economy and tariff negotiations with the United States.
Anwar also highlighted numerous welfare programmes, including cash handouts totaling RM13bil to nine million Malaysians.
"We are spending RM10bil for civil servants under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) and next year the figure will increase to RM18bil," he said, adding that RM1.3bil was spent to assist individuals with disabilities.
He also addressed the power-sharing formula between Pakatan Harapan, Barisan, and parties from Sabah and Sarawak.
"We need political stability to get more investments and create more jobs," he stressed.
More to come
