ALOR GAJAH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today questioned why some people continued to defend and honour leaders accused of plundering public funds, even as the government bore the cost of their past financial mismanagement.
He said corruption and abuse of power should not be excused because of a leader’s political influence or race.
“You don’t get angry with those who ‘sakau’? You even kiss their hands and accept their donations.
“That makes me wonder what is happening to our country,” he said at the Pesta Melaka, Rumah Kita programme at Taman Melaka Perdana here last night.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, cited the government’s financial obligations involving Felda, 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) and Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH).
“Imagine this. I am now the finance minister and prime minister. Every year, RM1 billion is used to settle Felda’s debts. Another RM2 billion to RM3 billion goes towards settling 1MDB’s debts, while Tabung Haji requires another RM1 billion,” he said.
He stressed that the fight against corruption must continue regardless of a person’s position, race or political connections.
He said leaders entrusted with public office should prioritise the people’s welfare instead of using their positions to amass personal wealth. umlegacypress.com