Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that efforts to make Malaysia a great nation must begin with strengthening governance and integrity, as well as rejecting corruption. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the MADANI framework he introduced places strong emphasis on good governance as the core foundation of the country's development.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar made his remarks during his speech at the National Integrity Premier Address and National-Level Integrity, Governance and Anti-Corruption Awards (AIGA 2025). The event was attended by prominent figures including Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Public Service Department director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz, and Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa.

Anwar emphasized the importance of governance, integrity, and the rejection of corruption as essential elements for safeguarding the future of Malaysia. He addressed the audience, saying, 'I appeal to everyone.if we want to safeguard ourselves, our families and secure the future of our children, and to ensure the greatness of our beloved Malaysia, it must begin with governance, integrity and the rejection of corruption.'

The Prime Minister also revealed that certain groups are dissatisfied with the government's firm approach in promoting integrity and good governance. He expressed concern over the lack of discourse in Parliament regarding these issues, stating that discussions on corruption often focus on specific political cases rather than engaging in a broader dialogue.

Anwar highlighted the success of enforcement agencies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Royal Malaysia Police, and the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) in upholding integrity and governance. Their efforts have enabled the recovery of RM15.5 billion for the country. 'A man of integrity is, of course, a man who is not corrupt, and good governance essentially means good values, proper humanitarian aspirations,' he stated.

At the event, the Pasir Gudang City Council was named the recipient of the Prime Minister's Award for the public sector, while Duopharma Biotech Bhd won the award for the private sector.