KUALA LUMPUR – Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (Port Dickson-PH) again attempted to push for a debate on the Pandora Papers in Dewan Rakyat, reiterating that this is necessary after several refusals by the speaker.
Anwar cited the Finance Ministry as saying an investigation into the matter will be possible if there was a breach of existing regulations.
He also questioned the silence of the Inland Revenue Board (IRB), police, and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
“From the 19.9 million Pandora Papers documents, more than 100,000 are related to Malaysian citizens.
“But why are we prevented from raising this matter in Parliament and urging agencies such as the MACC, Bank Negara Malaysia, IRB and the police to investigate?”
He also likened the revelations in the Pandora Papers to a “heist”, and said those involved must have the expertise to perform such “robberies”.
“Those who participated must have the expertise to carry out such a heist.
“Surely they have the best lawyers, accountants who were led by the greatest crooks.
“Please consider giving the space to explain what’s going on,” Anwar said, urging Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Mohd Rashid Hasnon (Batu Pahat-Bersatu) to ignore technicalities to facilitate debate.
However, the deputy speaker said according to Standing Order 43 of the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar must present a motion in writing and wait two days for a decision.
Anwar refused to relent, saying his request for a debate on the Pandora Papers has been rejected twice already.
“This is a minor technical point for a major financial malfeasance disaster. We have followed the prime minister’s statement on integrity and transparency.
“Now that we ask for integrity and transparency, our requests are rubbished.” – The Vibes, October 12, 2021
