PUTRAJAYA: The Madani government will be strict in addressing corruption cases regardless of whether it involves political allies or opponents, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He added that there would be no leniency or bowing to threats from anyone being investigated for graft.
According to Anwar, this was the message conveyed to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, in an audience granted on Tuesday (Dec 30) afternoon.
“I have briefed His Majesty on the latest information about investigations and stressed that we will not tolerate (corruption) or be threatened by anyone.
"We will be stern in addressing this issue, whether it involves our friends or enemies.
"A few actions have been taken against the administration, including my office, allies from component parties, the Opposition, the top leadership of the Armed Forces and the civil service," he told a special press conference at the Prime Minister’s Office here on Tuesday (Dec 30).
Earlier in the day, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim granted an audience to Anwar at Istana Pasir Pelangi in Johor Baru.
According to Anwar, he mainly briefed the King on corruption issues and governance.
"There are still some who are caught in the old ways and culture who are corrupted.
"We will continue being strict so that we can save the money and use these funds for the good of the people," he added.
Last month, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin resigned as the Prime Minister’s senior political secretary following corruption allegations by businessman Albert Tei.
On Dec 4, Shamsul and Tei were charged with corruption and both pleaded not guilty.
On Sunday (Dec 28), Army chief General Datuk Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan was placed on leave over an ongoing graft investigation.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is currently probing allegations against the Armed Forces over several procurement projects.
The MACC is also currently investigating a former minister for allegedly receiving RM5mil in bribes and a Lamborghini.
