KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today emphasised that he will not shield anyone from the law, regardless of their position, as Malaysia continues its efforts to combat corruption.
Speaking at the International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) celebration, Anwar stated that if any government official is found guilty of misconduct, appropriate action must be taken. He said, “If there is any officer from among us who made a mistake, if it’s a small (mistake) then disciplinary action will be taken, and if it’s a big (mistake), there should be readiness from relevant authorities to take action against our own officers because only then can we save our country.”
He further added, “So imagine my office, if there is (such a person), I will tell Azam (Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki), I will not protect anyone, immediate action must be taken.”
Anwar reiterated that this principle applies to all offices, including the Chief Secretary to the Government, the Attorney General’s Chambers, and even the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) itself. He stressed the importance of enforcement bodies acting impartially, even against their own ranks, to protect the nation’s integrity.
“This is the highest level of commitment we can show in defending the integrity and cleanliness of our country,” Anwar added.
In a separate matter, Anwar also addressed criticisms against him, stating that he has instructed the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) not to investigate individuals who criticise him, as long as their remarks do not involve criminal conduct.
“There were several actions taken against some government critics, including those attacking me personally. I have instructed that such cases need not be investigated,” Anwar said, explaining that political remarks, even if unfounded, should not result in police action.
“I do not question the intentions or motives of those attacking me, even if their comments are baseless, but I have directed that no action be taken unless it involves clear criminal conduct or claims that are excessive and completely improper,” he added.
Anwar expressed his disappointment with those who justify excessive criticism, particularly within Malay and Islamic political parties. He affirmed, “I find it strange that sometimes people within Malay and Islamic parties endorse such behaviour.”
Concluding his remarks, he asserted that political criticism, including calls for him to resign, should not trigger police involvement. “Even statements rooted purely in politics or calls for the Prime Minister to resign or step down, these are normal political remarks, and I do not think I or PDRM should entertain them,” Anwar said. – December 5, 2025