JOHOR BARU: Tougher regulations are needed to prevent the misappropriation of non-governmental organisation (NGO) funds, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said this was to avoid such organisations including welfare bodies, trusts and foundations abusing funds collected from the public.
"Many NGOs use Islam’s name to collect millions of ringgit to help Palestinians, but the funds might end up being used to buy properties and other things.
"Lately, we also heard that funds collected for welfare purposes were abused for personal use," he told reporters after a dialogue session with trainees at the Temenggong Ibrahim teacher education institute here on Friday (April 24).
Anwar stressed the need for relevant agencies to enforce stricter rules overseeing the spending of NGOs.
"We cannot count it as graft as the bodies collect the funds legitimately with certificates," he added.
At the same event, Anwar said youths should be in tune with geopolitical affairs to understand the realities of the world.
He said the unstable and challenging global situation has created ripple effects on the country.
"Youths should be in the know and understand the facts of current affairs and how it affects us.
"Don’t just depend on scraps of information that could hurt the country’s harmony – this is not a sign of knowledge and maturity," he added.
He also urged the younger generation to strive for excellence, whether in obtaining knowledge and in voicing opinions.
