Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim has doubled down on his administration’s commitment to integrity and accountability following the resignation of his senior political secretary, Dato' Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, who is currently linked to corruption allegations.
In a political landscape where denials, deflections, and delays were once the norm, Shamsul’s immediate resignation stands out as a rare move - one that Anwar says reflects the spirit of the Madani Government.
Speaking at the “PMX Sayang Sabah Bersama Anak Muda Inanam” programme, Anwar emphasised that Shamsul’s resignation was unprecedented in Malaysia’s political history, noting that he had done the right thing by immediately resigning and requesting that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) conduct an investigation. “Has that ever happened before? Only then can we claim integrity,” he said.
The Prime Minister did not mince his words when contrasting the current administration with the past, pointing out that when a prime minister was investigated previously, relatives fled abroad. “Is that what we call integrity?”
Anwar stressed that the foundation of a successful nation must begin with upright governance. He reminded all government officers and political appointees that accountability is non-negotiable - if they are found guilty, they must face the music, undergo full investigations, and take the matter to court. Only then, he said, can we truly protect this country.
Shamsul announced his resignation recently, stating that he had become aware of attempts to exploit a controversy involving a letter of support related to a hospital project. His stepping down came amid criticism and demands for action, including from former economy minister Dato' Seri Rafizi Ramli, who argued that the government must uphold its anti-corruption stance.
Anwar, in a formal statement, accepted the resignation and thanked Shamsul for his service. He stressed that the MACC was free to investigate “without any external interference,” reiterating the unity government’s focus on transparency. Shamsul, meanwhile, said his departure was necessary to defend himself and to avoid allowing the controversy to tarnish the government’s image.
Addressing voters during a Sabah ceramah, Anwar reiterated a principle he said applies to everyone - including those closest to him: “No one is above the law.” He dismissed suggestions that Shamsul’s proximity to the Prime Minister would shield him from scrutiny. “If it’s true, I don’t approve. Do I want MACC to investigate professionally? Yes. Transparently? Yes. Independently? Yes.”
The MACC has confirmed that an investigation paper has been opened, with Shamsul expected to record his statement. Businessman Datuk Albert Tei - who is at the centre of the allegations - is also scheduled to meet investigators. Tei, currently on trial in another bribery case, has claimed he spent RM629,000 on Shamsul, including property renovations, foreign currency, and premium items. These allegations surfaced shortly after Shamsul’s resignation and are now part of the growing public scrutiny.
As the probe unfolds, the scandal surrounding Shamsul Iskandar has become more than a test of individual integrity - it has become a test of the Madani Government’s resolve. For Anwar, the message is clear: integrity is not just a slogan; it must be demonstrated, even when it comes at a political cost.
By: Kpost
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