If You Want Me to Stay Silent on Corruption, Find Another Prime Minister – Anwar

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that he will not compromise on corruption and the misuse of public funds, despite facing criticism and condemnation.

He openly declared that those who wanted him to remain silent about such wrongdoing should find another Prime Minister.

Anwar said the government’s previous actions to address corruption had not been welcomed by everyone, triggering various reactions, including anger and criticism.

However, he stressed that he could not allow such practices to continue while many Malaysians still had to work hard to earn a daily living.

“Some agree, but many are angry. I have been insulted and criticised for taking action. But how can we simply allow this to continue?

“Brothers and sisters, earning RM100 a day is a struggle. People have to work and leave their families behind. Yet others can easily take billions, and you expect me to turn a blind eye? No.

“If anyone wants me to remain silent, find another Prime Minister. I cannot bring myself to allow this dishonesty to continue,” he said.

He made the remarks while speaking at the Launch Ceremony for the Special Financial Assistance for Taxi, Hire Car and School Bus Drivers at the Ministry of Transport here today.

In his speech, Anwar also raised the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal and issues involving Tabung Haji and FELDA, which he said needed to be addressed.

According to him, efforts to tackle these issues must continue to ensure that the country’s administration is no longer plagued by corruption and abuse of power.

At the same time, the government must ensure that the people’s basic needs, including education, healthcare and welfare, continue to receive adequate attention.

Anwar also emphasised that the country needed principled leadership that understood the hardships faced by ordinary Malaysians, particularly those in the lower-income group.

He said leaders should not exploit their positions and authority for personal gain or to enrich themselves.

He also reminded Malaysians that the country’s strength lay in the unity of its multiracial society, whose members collectively contributed to national development.

“This is a great country. Look at our taxi drivers. Malays, Chinese and Indians can sit together and raise their concerns collectively.

“Why should we allow those who are destroying our country to determine our future?” he added.

AWANI