SERI ISKANDAR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirms the government's commitment to continue cleansing the nation of corruption, abuse of power and cartel activities, following the success of strict enforcement efforts that have recovered national assets amounting to RM15.5 bil over the past two years.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, said that this achievement demonstrates the government's resolve in ensuring that no party — including high-ranking individuals — escapes legal action if involved in activities that harm the country.
"We succeeded in seizing RM15.5 bil in stolen and smuggled funds through criminal activities and this is just within two years. That's because I've been firm and have made it clear to all enforcement agencies that there will be no compromise when it comes to corruption, smuggling, syndicates, and cartels. Eliminate them, because they are stealing from the people," he said.
"I want, God willing, to untangle the mess that has occurred. Whatever people may say does not shake me — I consider this our responsibility," he said during the "Temu Anwar" programme with students of Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) at the university's Chancellery here Saturday (Oct 11).
Anwar also delivered a public lecture titled "Universities as Strategic Assets: Shaping Malaysia's Future through Talent, Technology and Transformation" at the event, which was attended by Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad; Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir; and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Anwar stressed that the government will not compromise with any party, including syndicates and cartels that misappropriate national resources, emphasising that the principles of justice and integrity must be upheld regardless of an individual's status or title.
"Sometimes they carry titles like Datuk, Datuk Seri, Tan Sri or Tun — I don't care. You can have titles, but if you steal, we will arrest you, try you in court and if found guilty, you will go to prison."
He said efforts to combat corruption and strengthen governance with integrity are part of the government's broader mission to secure the nation's future and that of the younger generation, given Malaysia's vast potential for continued progress.
He also called on students and youth to support the fight for justice and reject all forms of racial oppression, while building a strong sense of identity rooted in humanitarian values, high ethics, knowledge and new skills.
