PETALING JAYA: Four major institutional reform Bills, related to the ombudsman, freedom of information (FOI), political funding and separation of powers between the attorney-general and the public prosecutor, are now in the consultation phase and expected to be brought to Parliament next year.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 are also being readied, with proposals for both stronger safeguards and incentives for those who come forward.
“The relevant ministers have submitted policy decisions for Cabinet approval regarding the ombudsman, FOI, political funding and the distribution of powers between the attorney-general and the public prosecutor.
“All four bills are undergoing engagement, including consultations with Parliament, the Bar Council and other stakeholders, before finalisation.
“Some are expected to be tabled early next year, while others may come mid-year.”
He was responding to a question from Sri Aman MP Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodi on the progress of legal and institutional reforms, seen as central to improving the standing of Malaysia on the Corruption Perceptions Index.
On the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2028, the prime minister said monitoring efforts have intensified, particularly on initiatives to reward proactive enforcement agencies and encourage witness cooperation.
“This includes proposals for agencies actively participating in anti-corruption programmes to be eligible for tax deductions, as well as allowances for witnesses willing to cooperate.”
Highlighting early gains under NACS, Anwar said enforcement agencies have recorded significant successes in tackling leakages, smuggling and cartel activities, recovering RM15.5 billion.
He added that since NACS was launched on May 7, 2024, a total of 23 sub-strategies have been implemented across 12 ministries and agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, with five completed in 2024 and the remaining 18 currently in execution.
