Former Malaysian PM Questions Credibility of Pulau Batu Puteh RCI Report
Kuala Lumpur – Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad has expressed his discontent with the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Pulau Batu Puteh, questioning its transparency and integrity.
Dr. Mahathir criticized the government for conducting the RCI behind closed doors, initially barring media and the public from the proceedings, including himself and his legal representatives. Yet, he noted the eventual tabling of the report in Parliament, which contradicted the earlier secrecy justified as a matter of national security.
Despite no criminal charges or police investigations, the former premier highlighted the public circulation of the report and the criticisms leveled against him. He urged members of Parliament to thoroughly review the RCI report to avoid a futile debate.
Dr. Mahathir also raised concerns about the credibility of several commissioners on the RCI panel, alleging conflicts of interest. He pointed out that some panel members had previously participated in a task force that recommended the RCI, thereby questioning their impartiality.
The former Prime Minister defended his decision in 2018 to not pursue a judicial review of the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) ruling awarding Pulau Batu Puteh to Singapore. He cited legal advice from international experts, who assessed Malaysia’s chances of success as slim and cautioned against potential risks to national interests.
He also criticized former Attorney General Tan Sri Apandi Ali, alleging mishandling of the ICJ review process, lack of transparency, and significant expenses incurred during his tenure. Dr. Mahathir demanded accountability for the funds spent on legal experts and questioned the exclusion of key government agencies from the decision-making process.
Dr. Mahathir, highlighting Malaysia’s sovereignty, urged the government to develop and reclaim areas around Middle Rocks, which Malaysia has awarded, in a manner similar to past successes with Pulau Layang-Layang.
Dr. Mahathir concluded by restating his dedication to national interests, refuting accusations of treason, and asserting that legal advice and collective Cabinet decisions guided his actions.
Parliament will continue to debate the RCI report as questions about its contents and redactions remain unresolved.