Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated today that public officers who issue letters urging certain matters to be considered should be reprimanded rather than dismissed. He emphasized that these actions become offensive when officials issue support letters or request approvals for companies or individuals seeking projects.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar mentioned a recent incident involving an officer from his office who forwarded a list of six companies with a note to 'consider', specifying that a reprimand is sufficient for such actions. He differentiated between 'consideration' and 'approval', citing another case at the Finance Ministry where an officer merely 'forwarded' a letter. During the Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar was responding to Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin (PN-Masjid Tanah), who inquired about potential internal audits on ministerial officers.
Anwar elaborated on the commonality of receiving letters during his visits to various districts and states, stating, "When someone hands me a letter, I write 'please review'. What is unacceptable are letters that endorse a company or ask that approval be granted." He reiterated that all allegations of power abuse or corruption are referred entirely to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for investigation, ensuring no government interference.
He also addressed the opposition's dissatisfaction with the MACC's investigation into his former senior political secretary, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin. Anwar pointed out that the individual has been detained and dressed in lock-up attire, contrasting this with more serious cases that received less attention. He affirmed that he has not interfered with the MACC's investigations, maintaining that they have complete freedom to proceed.
As both Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Anwar highlighted the MADANI Government's commitment to combatting corruption in collaboration with the MACC, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), which has resulted in the recovery of RM15.5 billion in national revenue. He emphasized that these actions are aimed at dismantling syndicates that have operated for decades, underscoring the current political resolve and determination to take action.