PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored his administration’s commitment to accountability and reform, declaring that only a bold and stable government would willingly surrender certain powers to Parliament to ensure transparency and good governance.
Speaking at the Madani Rakyat programme in Dataran Nilai, Anwar pointed to two major legislative initiatives— the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Government Procurement Act — as evidence of the Madani Government’s resolve.
“Which government would be willing to hand over its powers to Parliament? Among them is the Fiscal Responsibility Act,” he said. “If the Finance Minister announces projections to reduce debt, and Parliament approves them, but those targets are not met, then the Minister must return to Parliament and explain. This is to ensure government policy is fully accountable.”
Anwar said the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Bill 2023 has already been passed in the Dewan Negara, reinforcing oversight over economic policy. At the same time, the Government Procurement Act has been tabled for the first time in Malaysia’s legislative history, something past administrations had never done, he added.
“When enacted and gazetted, it will apply to all government projects — federal, state, and even at the level of local authorities — all of which must comply with clear procedures,” he said.
He noted that only security-related procurements such as radar systems would be exempt due to confidentiality. “Other than that, everything must go through tender,” he stressed.
“If the Finance Minister or Prime Minister has any interest—say their child or spouse is involved in a company—and they influence a decision, that will be considered a punishable offence.
“Whether you are a minister, a civil servant, or a technical officer, you will be held accountable. That is our approach to ensuring no more looting or abuse. Only a strong and courageous government would be willing to relinquish such powers in the name of accountability,” Anwar stated.
Defence Procurement Failures ‘An Embarrassment’
Later, during the opening of Mildef International Technologies’ armoured vehicle manufacturing plant, Anwar delivered a sharp rebuke of the country's defence procurement process, citing delays and lack of transparency that have plagued Malaysia’s military readiness despite high spending.
He singled out the long-delayed Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) project, saying the failure to deliver the vessels has embarrassed the country internationally.
“We host the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA). When I received salutes from countries participating — their naval forces from across the world — I felt deeply embarrassed,” he said.
“Despite our proud development and economic growth, our procurement is very weak, even with such high expenditure. As we all know, the LCS and other ships never arrived... they’ve become a running joke for years.”
Anwar said such dysfunction not only undermines national security but also taints the credibility of Malaysia’s military forces.
He thanked Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin for supporting calls for transparency and full technical review of the procurement system, describing corrupt practices within the defence apparatus as a betrayal.
“We have a military whose duty is to defend the country, but within it lies a pit of corruption that weakens our strength in pursuit of profit from procurement efforts,” he warned.
Anwar also voiced concern over recent reports alleging that members of the military’s intelligence unit had been involved in smuggling and abuse of power.
“Although the situation remains under control, and assurances have been given by the Minister and the Commander, a country like Malaysia cannot easily forgive military intelligence officers involved in smuggling and betrayal.
“I cannot imagine individuals trained to defend the nation committing such treachery,” he said.
He emphasised that defence institutions should be exemplary in their discipline and dedication, and urged that past procurement scandals not be repeated.
“If there are those who have not learned from previous betrayals and continue with the same practices, then the investigative machinery — the police, MACC, and the armed forces — must not take it lightly.
“There must be a full investigation, so that future generations learn from it,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Anwar expressed confidence in Malaysia’s growing defence industry, particularly companies such as Mildef that have succeeded in developing indigenous assets, including armoured vehicles.
“I came here because I care, and I believe in our capabilities. When a ship or asset is properly acquired, it deserves our full support,” he said.
Stop the Bickering Over National Flag, Anwar Urges Calm
In a separate matter, Anwar urged Malaysians not to politicise the national flag or use it as a tool to provoke racial tensions.
While reaffirming the Jalur Gemilang as a proud national symbol deserving of respect, he cautioned against using minor incidents to incite interethnic discord.
“Sometimes when we are at peace, we make assumptions and try to provoke fights — over the flag, everyone wants to quarrel, and some are heating up racial divisions,” he said.
He made these remarks at the Mildef plant opening, emphasising that while respect for the flag is essential, enforcement must be measured and fair.
“Don’t misunderstand — I’m not saying the flag isn’t important. It is a symbol of national pride and must be honoured.
“In the past, we might have forgiven such mistakes. But now, if such incidents occur, whether in government departments or private entities, action must be taken. Still, I want to stress — don’t jump to conclusions or assume everything is malicious,” he said.
Anwar reminded citizens that the nation’s peace is not without cost, but earned through the sacrifices of the country’s security forces.
“This peace is due to the preparations, service and sacrifice of our armed forces over the years — but it will not last forever.
“Who would have predicted the Thailand-Cambodia conflict? Or the protracted unrest in Myanmar? When conflict erupts, it spills into Thailand, Bangladesh, and even Malaysia. That’s why we must always be prepared.
“And do not use these justifications to pursue illicit wealth,” he added. - August 23, 2025
