Kuala lumpur: The MADANI Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has declared a comprehensive campaign against cartels and smuggling as a crucial effort to protect the nation and its citizens. Anwar, who also holds the position of Finance Minister, highlighted that the issues of cartels and smuggling have been longstanding, persisting for decades due to insufficient capability and political determination in the past.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed gratitude to enforcement bodies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for their significant contributions to the government's mission. He acknowledged the substantial risks involved for these agencies given the deep-rooted nature of the cartels but reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing these challenges.
Anwar emphasized the extraordinary nature of the current measures, noting that decades of neglect have resulted in financial losses amounting to tens of billions of ringgit. He reiterated that the government's commitment is a vital step towards national preservation, as stated during his address at the International Malaysian Higher Education Institutions Islamic Studies Convention 2025.
The Prime Minister also criticized a minority of individuals for their silence regarding the success of enforcement agencies in dismantling cartels and combating smuggling. He pointed out the lack of vocal support from Parliament, particularly from the opposition side, despite the government's efforts to curb illegal activities.
Anwar previously underscored the government's dedication to eliminating corruption and cartel operations, which has led to the recovery of RM15.5 billion in national revenues over two years through stringent enforcement actions. Additionally, Anwar encouraged students from the Faculty of Islamic Education to utilize advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, as part of modernizing the dissemination of Islamic teachings.
The International Malaysian Higher Education Institutions Islamic Studies Convention 2025 aims to unite the nation's scholars and academic leaders to promote Islamic studies in Malaysia, fostering an environment of knowledge, wisdom, and unity. Distinguished attendees included Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, and Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd Kashim, Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).