PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is giving government enforcement officers one week to decide if they are ready to take on greater responsibility in the fight against corruption or they can request for a change in duties.
The Prime Minister said it was unacceptable that enforcement officers still tolerate wrongdoing such as smuggling, bribing and gangsterism.
"We have reached a stage where we need a firm answer. If you feel that you are unable to carry out your duties because the challenge is too big or you are simply disinterested, let your departments, myself or even the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) know about it within this week.
"If you are not ready to take the brave step then please give space to someone else," said Anwar to department heads and enforcement agencies under the Finance Ministry at Putrajaya on Wednesday (Jan 28).
He said Malaysia has great potential and the people are hungry for change.
"I have lost my patience and I feel there are weaknesses that must be fixed.
"So I am giving one week… I will respect you if you choose lower responsibilities or positions.
"If you have been entrusted with this duty, please take one week to reflect on this," he said.
Anwar said it is important for all relevant enforcement agencies and departments to work as a team and ensure that the nation's borders are protected from smuggling.
"How can our borders be so porous? Have our officers forgotten the meaning of truth and fairness?" he said.
Anwar said it is unacceptable for enforcement officers to be so to be so accepting of wrongdoing.
"Do we want it to be business as usual, where we are okay with smuggling, bribes and gangsterism? We cannot continue with this.
"So I urge my friends here to take immediate action, starting now," he said.
