PM Anwar Ibrahim pledges full backing for MACC, citing RM15.5 billion saved from corruption through enhanced inter-agency enforcement collaboration
PUTRAJAYA: The MADANI government continues to provide its full support to all enforcement agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), in strengthening the fight against corruption.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that such support must be accompanied by a commitment to values, good governance, and consistent action.
He noted that while criticism in a democracy is normal, it is concerning when parties loudly oppose corruption yet defend major companies with integrity issues.
Quoting surah Al-Muddathir, Anwar said the verses remind people to rise from negligence and continuously purify their hearts and conduct.
“If we truly believe in Allah the Almighty, then purify ourselves, purify our thinking, purify our hearts,” he said in his speech at the International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 celebration.
The event was also attended by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki.
Anwar emphasised that the celebration is a platform to renew resolve, stating that no national reform can succeed without genuine values in integrity, economy, or justice.
“Good governance, stronger integrity, a fairer economy — none of these can happen if the values are not nurtured and practised,” he said.
He called for a national culture that firmly rejects corruption to be strengthened with greater determination.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that anti-corruption efforts since the Prophet’s time focused on character-building, creating a generation of strong integrity.
He criticised a perverse culture where bribe-givers are lauded as fighters, noting such behaviour clearly harms the nation.
On enforcement, Anwar said the government is strengthening collaboration between the MACC, Inland Revenue Board, Bank Negara, police, and Customs Department.
He revealed that coordination over the past two years has prevented RM15.5 billion from being misappropriated.
“Think about it — where would that money have gone if we had not acted? Straight into the pockets of the corrupt,” Anwar said.
He expressed appreciation for enforcement teams confronting large-scale smuggling cartels, despite their efforts being questioned in the past.
“Breaking the walls of a cartel is not easy. We are beginning to show results, and I salute all enforcement agencies,” he stated.
Anwar concluded by emphasising the need to cultivate a culture of good conduct across all government agencies for national progress. – Bernama
