PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that government integrity remains a top priority, highlighting a historic recovery of RM15.5 billion in forfeited assets and penalties.
Speaking in the Dewan Negara, Anwar described the achievement as unprecedented, signalling past lapses and systemic gaps.
“This is the first time in the nation’s history and it demonstrates that previously there were leniencies and loopholes. How is it possible in a country for us to recover RM15.5 billion from leakages, corruption, smuggling and other offences?” he said.
Of the total recovered, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) accounted for over RM8 billion, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) nearly RM4 billion, the Customs Department RM2.5 billion, while the Ministry of Domestic Trade and the Malaysian Competition Commission together contributed RM1 billion in seizures and penalties.
Earlier, Anwar announced plans to table amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 in the Dewan Rakyat next year.
The proposed changes aim to clarify the distinction between genuine whistleblowers and criminal elements attempting to exploit the law.
“It is important to close loopholes that have been misused, especially by entrenched criminals or corrupt individuals who claim to cooperate with authorities to evade prosecution,” the Prime Minister explained.
He emphasised that protection should not be granted indiscriminately, cautioning that offenders should not be elevated to “hero” status simply because they disclose wrongdoing after committing serious offences.
“Whistleblowers must be clearly distinguished from hardened criminals attempting to hide behind the guise of a whistleblower. These are two matters that must be separated clearly,” he said.
Anwar also reiterated that genuine whistleblowers would continue to receive comprehensive protection, including for their personal safety and that of their families. - December 16, 2025
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