Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has raised concerns over what he described as a selective response from the opposition regarding official letters tied to project applications. He noted that while critics aggressively condemned letters forwarded from his office, they appeared quiet when similar letters originating from Kelantan and Terengganu requested approval for projects.
Speaking during Ministers’ Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar explained that his own practice when responding to letters is limited to writing a neutral instruction such as “please study this carefully.” He stressed that he has never signed any document that explicitly supports or recommends approval for companies seeking government projects.
Anwar clarified that officials who issue letters containing phrases like “please consider” or “please take note” should be cautioned but not dismissed, as these expressions do not amount to an endorsement. He added that any letter crossing the line into urging approval would indeed be improper and unlawful.
He referred to a recent case involving his office, where officials forwarded a list of companies for consideration. He agreed that the officials deserved reprimand since such action could be misconstrued, but argued that termination was unnecessary because the letter did not explicitly push for approval. He also highlighted another instance at the Ministry of Finance, where a letter was described as having been “submitted,” further fuelling confusion about its intent.
Anwar emphasised that leaders frequently receive letters in every district, state, and constituency they visit. His response, he said, always directs the relevant department to examine the matter, without expressing support or preference for any particular applicant.
He then pointed to similar letters originating from Kelantan and Terengganu, where officials had previously submitted documents seeking project approvals. He questioned the opposition’s silence on those cases, saying it was inconsistent for critics to portray routine forwarding of letters as a serious offence while ignoring instances involving explicit requests for approval.
Anwar stated that the conduct of government officials is regulated through service circulars, discipline procedures, and internal audits. He reaffirmed that any allegations of misconduct or corruption would be thoroughly examined by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), with no interference from the administration.
He also addressed dissatisfaction expressed by some opposition members regarding MACC’s investigation into his former senior political secretary, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar. Anwar remarked that the investigation was already in progress, and noted that the individual had even appeared in detention attire with handcuffs, a level of treatment not always seen in more serious cases.
Furthermore, Anwar highlighted the government’s success in recovering RM15.5 billion through agencies such as MACC, the Inland Revenue Board, and Bank Negara Malaysia. He attributed this progress to strong political will and a commitment to dismantling long-standing organised wrongdoing.
He concluded that tackling systemic corruption requires firmness and consistency, urging all parties to maintain the same standards they demand of others.
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