Anwar: Opposition strangely silent on MACC probing 'super-rich'

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim criticised the opposition’s alleged silence and lack of support for the efforts of the MACC in investigating the “super-rich” linked to corruption issues.

Without naming anyone, Anwar claimed that some opposition leaders were defending prominent “super-rich” figures facing investigation by the anti-corruption agency.

He expressed disappointment, stating that it was even more unfortunate when accusations were made against him, attributing it to personal grudges.

“I observed in Parliament, that the opposition behaves as if it is angry and resentful, and there is no opposition voice supporting the steps to combat corruption. To me, it’s strange.

“When I was in opposition, if there was a government proposal regarding the MACC, I supported it. In fact, I said it (government action) was not brave enough.

“Recently, there was an action by the MACC against one of the prominent figures considered the wealthiest. There has been no voice from the opposition,” he said during his speech at the National Anti-Corruption Summit 2024 in Kuala Lumpur today.

Previously, former finance minister Daim Zainuddin and his wife Na’imah Abdul Khalid had accused the prime minister of settling old scores when MACC launched an investigation into their wealth.

Daim and Na’imah were charged on Jan 29 and 23 respectively with failing to declare their assets to the anti-graft commission.

MACC has also ordered former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s sons, Mirzan and Mokhzani, to declare their assets.

Zero tolerance

Anwar gave his assurance the government would not tolerate any leaders accused of abusing power or corruption.

He stated that relevant authorities, including the MACC, are free to investigate any government leaders.

If there are allegations proven to involve corruption, Anwar said he himself would not hesitate to remove the individual from the cabinet.

“But the warning is clear, the MACC will not exclude investigations into the current leadership or monitor every tender or decision made.

“If there are, I say don’t ask me, please take action, and those individuals must be removed for the country to be safe,” he said.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said he is proud of his clean leadership image so far, with no leaders proven to be involved in corrupt activities.

The prime minister also urged anyone with evidence of corruption among government leaders to come forward and report to the authorities.

“For over a year, we have been in power, and faced many attacks, but I ask in Parliament and outside Parliament, to provide one piece of evidence against any minister or the current prime minister if there is corruption.

“Ask (MACC chief commissioner) Azam Baki, if there is an investigation, we will investigate, charge, and follow the judicial system for punishment,” he added.

Anwar’s government came under criticism last year when the attorney-general sought a discharge not amounting to an acquittal for Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi over 47 corruption charges.

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