Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.– Bernama
PETALING JAYA: There will be no mercy shown to those who have pocketed billions, even if they are my children, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that his priorities remain the cost of living, economic recovery and ensuring that development comes to all Malaysians, regardless of ethnicity.
"My priority is to help the poor and the majority are Malays, Indians, Orang Asli and there are pockets of Chinese poor in the urban outskirts," he said.
He said this in an interview during the "Bicara Naratif" programme on RTM1 aired on Friday (Jan 6) night with hosts Sayed Munawar Sayed Mustar and Ismail Adnan.
"We will do our best – on global issues and internal issues. We have the political will – do not be arrogant, do not be cruel and do not take bribes. There is a new spirit among the civil servants to bring change and also from the general public. It is good if the people rise to bring a change for the better.
When asked if his anti-corruption call would only nett "small fish", he said, "there have also been sharks caught for corruption.
"I have given full freedom to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to take action against the corrupt.
"I have told authorities to be strict and also told ministers to take action if there is proof of enrichment by the corrupt.
"What is nauseating is that many have not learnt any lessons – for example in cases of flood mitigation and KL Tower – these are cases involving leaders.
"I will make sure that there is action against those who pocketed billions. It is not revenge politics. I do not want cases to be closed and for there to be selective investigation," he said.
Anwar also said there was "clear evidence that the millions that had been pocketed were originally meant for fishermen and farmers.
"The political leaders stashed them in London, New York and Australia while the people live in poverty.
"I have also told the Cabinet that the civil service is a big family. If there is a small group who is corrupt, do not punish everyone.
"In the same vein, do not punish all politicians just because a few are dirty," said Anwar.
When asked if he would ensure there is separation of powers, Anwar said out that he had never interfered in judicial appointments.
"I followed what the Attorney General advised. I do not think I was involved although I felt one or two names were not suitable.
"Give space to the Chief Justice and the Judiciary to carry out their duties based on facts and laws, not feeling of self-passion," said Anwar.
