KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must always carry out its duties and responsibilities independently and impartially, including in investigations involving political figures and former national leaders, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said this aligns with the role of the MACC in carrying out its tasks based on the principles of justice and the rule of law.
"Those who perceive these investigations as politically motivated should look at the facts, not political sentiments, to confuse the people.
"If it is clear from the investigation that there is a high-profile case which has strong grounds for prosecution, then it is the responsibility of the MACC and the Attorney General's Chambers to do so," he said at the Dewan Negara sitting today.
Anwar said this in reply to Senator A. Kesavadas who wanted to know the extent to which the MACC is committed to investigating all acts of corruption and abuse of power involving former prime ministers.
Meanwhile, Anwar also urged any parties claiming that investigating agencies in the country, including MACC, are acting on political directives, to come out with evidence to support their allegations.
He said this was because sometimes, actions and decisions taken by the MACC are being politicised by certain parties.
"Look at the facts, if during our tenure, we used our power to award contracts to our family members and cronies, amassing wealth for ourselves, then don't question why the MACC is investigating, and when the MACC investigates, don't say it's a political accusation.
"As members of the House (Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara), we should shoulder the responsibility to save the country from rampant corruption," he said in reply to the supplementary question from Senator Datuk Dominic Lau Hoe Chai.
Dominic wanted to know the mechanism used by the MACC to ensure that investigations conducted by the MACC are not influenced by those in power or any politically motivated directives.
Anwar said that currently, the investigation procedures of the MACC are quite clear, that is if a report is filed, the investigation will be carried out promptly, with him himself having requested all enforcement agencies to conduct investigations professionally and without fear.
The Prime Minister also gave assurance that the Unity Government will always take firm action to fight the cancer of corruption in the country.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Mon Jun 19 2023
Those who perceive these investigations as politically motivated should look at the facts, not political sentiments, to confuse the people, PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. - BERNAMA/Filepic
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.