KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that firm enforcement by various government agencies over the past two years has prevented leakages amounting to RM15.5 billion, describing it as the most effective effort to curb revenue loss in the country's history.
This success was the result of uncompromising and coordinated action by a multi-agency task force comprising the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and other agencies.
“If there had been no effective enforcement, we would not have recovered this RM15 billion. The enforcement has been firm and courageous, and as far as I know, this is the most effective and successful in history.
“When you look at the records of seizures and anti-smuggling efforts and others I mentioned, it really amounts to RM15 billion. That is why I am giving special appreciation to the enforcement teams for their efforts,” he said during the Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Anwar was responding to Tanjung Piai Datuk Seri Wee Jeck Seng's supplementary query on why firm enforcement actions had not been taken earlier and about the number of prosecutions carried out.
He added that the government will not compromise on any form of corruption, smuggling, or scam activities, with 20 cases already brought to court, and the Attorney-General pursuing follow-up action.
The courage shown by the agencies in taking on powerful cartels, including secret societies and international crime syndicates, was made possible only through firm political support and protection assured by the country’s top leadership.
“It is not easy; they are fighting against big companies and influential cartels. They need clear political will and backing. That is why, from the end of 2023 until 2025, we have managed to prevent leakages, corruption, and smuggling — that is where the RM15.5 billion came from.
“Just imagine how extensive those leakages had been, how many cartels were involved… this did not happen just this year or three years ago, but over many years,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister stressed that the mission to rid the nation of corruption, leakages, and smuggling must continue, including by enhancing the use of advanced equipment at the country’s borders.
This includes the use of digital systems, closed-circuit television, body-worn cameras, cargo scanners and the establishment of a Centralised Screening Complex to strengthen border control.
He noted that the proceeds from seizures and asset recoveries are channelled into the Consolidated Fund before being allocated according to national spending needs for key sectors, including education, health, and defence.
Anwar also gave his assurance that he would consider allocating a small portion of the proceeds seized under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Act 234) towards drug rehabilitation efforts through non-governmental organisations and community programmes.
“I agree, I will give it consideration... a portion can be allocated for drug rehabilitation programmes,” he said in response to Langkawi MP Datuk Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah's supplementary query, in which he suggested that part of the seized assets under Act 234 be used for drug rehabilitation programmes.
