PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has given his assurance that the government will protect those who act decisively in fighting corruption and safeguarding national revenue.
This is in line with the administration’s commitment to strengthening governance and national integrity, he added.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said bold and immediate action is needed to ensure that Malaysia is free from corrupt practices and abuse of power that threaten the economy and the people’s well-being.
"We must find firm, tough and immediate solutions, and I will defend those who carry out their duties to save the nation," he said at the monthly assembly with Prime Minister's Department staff here on Monday (Oct 13).
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"I want to express my full support for their actions, and we appreciate their efforts. However, enforcement alone is not enough.
"Despite the stern measures, corruption and leakages still persist,” he added.
Also present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Public Service director-general Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
Anwar also reminded civil servants not to rely solely on the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and other enforcement agencies to uphold clean and transparent governance, but to shoulder the responsibility collectively.
He said the government's focus on enforcement over the past two years has helped save RM15.5 billion in funds previously lost to corruption, leakages and smuggling.
Anwar commended enforcement agencies including the MACC, Inland Revenue Board and the Royal Malaysia Police for the success, saying it reflects the government's firm resolve to safeguard national revenue.
"That is why in 2023, I pushed for stronger enforcement, but the results were limited. By 2024, progress became clearer. In just two years, we've saved RM15.5bil from smuggling, leakages and corruption," he said.
Acknowledging that fighting corruption is a risky and challenging task that often meets resistance, the Prime Minister stressed that the government will not waver in its effort to build a clean and accountable administration.
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He said strengthening governance must begin with correcting weaknesses in the past administrative system that had enabled revenue losses.
Anwar said those who have enjoyed a luxurious life from subsidies may disagree with the government's corrective measures, but reforms are necessary to dismantle an outdated and ineffective system that persisted through changes in administration.
"Whether we have one, two or five years left, serve well.
"Imagine this: RM15bil saved in two years. If we can save RM100bil in 10 years, we could build universities, rural clinics, schools and facilities for persons with disabilities.
"I'm not denying the contributions of past leaders, but these are the facts," he said.
Anwar said the success in curbing corruption not only prevents leakages but also strengthens Malaysia's reputation as a strong and respected nation. – Bernama
