PUTRAJAYA, Oct 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has given assurance that the government will protect those who act decisively in combating corruption and safeguarding national revenue, in line with the administration’s commitment to strengthening governance and national integrity.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said bold and immediate action is needed to ensure 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.
“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 said at the Prime Minister’s Monthly Assembly with staff of the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) here today.
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 RM15.5 billion from smuggling, leakages and corruption,” he said.
Acknowledging that combating corruption is a risky and challenging task often met with resistance, the Prime Minister stressed that the government will not waver in its effort to build a clean and accountable administration.
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 the outdated and ineffective system that has persisted despite changes in administration.
“Whether we have one, two or five years left, serve well.
“Imagine this — RM15 billion saved in two years. If we can save RM100 billion 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.
