All the country's leaders, including those who are still serving in the government or those who have left or retired, are bound by the Official Secrets Act 1972, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi says.

This is because they have all taken an oath of secrecy to keep government secrets, Zahid told reporters today after launching the book, ‘Being Abdullah Ahmad Badawi – The Authorised Biography’ in Kuala Lumpur.

“Although MPs have their immunity, the OSA binds the person to keep a secret, including those who have left the government, from revealing the government's secrets,” he said.

Therefore, Zahid reminded all leaders to realise and remember this.

“This has to be acknowledged, and serve a reminder to all,” added Zahid, who is also the home minister.

He said he leaves it to the police to investigate on the three former ministers.

“If their speech is found to have breached the OSA, then police can submit their findings to the attorney-general for the matter to be taken to court.

“It is too early for me to speak as to what has been gained now. We leave it to the police and the AG for the next course of action,” he said.

Yesterday, inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar, was reported to have said that they would be taking statements from the three former ministers for allegedly revealing government secrets.

This follows police reports filed by two NGOs, including Jaringan Melayu Malaysia.

Former deputy prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin, former rural development mnister Shafie Apdal and former finance minister II Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah have been accused of leaking state secrets when debating the 2017 Budget in the Dewan Rakyat.

Ahmad Zahid was also asked to comment on allegations that Bersih 2.0 is financed by foreign funds.

“We cannot say anything unless there is ample proof,” he replied.