PENAMPANG — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised that corruption must be tackled firmly through the rule of law and sound principles — not through perceptions, slander, or insults.
He said the Madani Government would never allow its leaders to enrich themselves by diverting the nation’s revenue and wealth at the expense of the people, adding that Malaysia has laws in place to ensure justice for all.
Commenting on recent corruption allegations involving several Sabah state assemblymen — as seen in video clips circulated online — Anwar said the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will investigate the matter according to due process and existing legislation.
He expressed disappointment that some quarters had created the impression that the government was attempting to cover up the case.
“Claims that we are covering up this case are rooted in perception. Especially in urban areas, there’s a growing belief that corruption and wrongdoing are being swept under the rug — that the country is no longer safe.
“But this is a nation governed by law, not one driven by perception, accusations, or slander,” he said while officiating the state-level Kaamatan Festival celebration in Sabah today.
The event, held at Dewan Hongkod Koisaan of the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA), was also attended by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, and KDCA president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.
Anwar said that investigations were ongoing and that the video clips must be properly scrutinised. He urged all parties to give the MACC the time and space necessary to carry out its probe.
He stressed that, despite holding the nation’s highest office, he does not interfere in corruption cases, as each institution has its own responsibilities under Malaysia’s legal framework.
“I’m not a dictator. I uphold the law and due process. Investigations are the responsibility of the MACC or the police. Prosecution lies with the Attorney-General. Sentencing is the role of the judiciary. As prime minister, my duty is to ensure the system functions smoothly and fairly.
“The prime minister does not investigate, prosecute, or pass judgment — that would be a dictatorship. We’ve experienced that before, and I have no intention of repeating such a system,” he said. — May 30, 2025