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DATUK Seri Anwar Ibrahim has voiced concern over a worrying trend in Malaysia that glorifies those who engage in bribery, warning that such attitudes threaten the nation’s fight against corruption.
Speaking at the Prime Minister’s Engagement with the Ministry of Public Works (KKR) staff during the ministry’s monthly assembly on Monday, the Prime Minister said all Malaysians must not compromise human values for the sake of political disputes or personal interests.
“There is a current trend where some individuals are excessively idolised, and this erodes human values. We say we hate corruption, yet when action is taken against friends involved in bribery, people become upset,” he said.
Highlighting the challenge of combating corruption, Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, stressed that the glorification of bribe-givers is particularly troubling.
“Because of this trend, we will not be able to elevate our state or nation,” he added.
Present at the event were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Minister of Public Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, his Deputy Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, and KKR Chief Secretary Datuk Seri Azman Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of instilling values of humanity, compassion, and mutual respect among all citizens to ensure the nation’s continued prosperity.
“Our first love should be for humanity, then for animals, trees, hills, and the earth we tread upon. If this is understood and practiced, the heavens will shower mercy and blessings upon us,” he said.
Anwar illustrated his point with the example of public infrastructure projects, noting that the intention behind work should be sincere and free from corruption.
“Imagine every day we work, every design we draft, every new method we introduce, all aimed at completing projects efficiently.
“The blessings of the heavens will be upon us. Imagine building a bridge with sincere and clean intentions, without commission, bribery, or misappropriation.
“It is carried out in the best way possible, with available resources, for the benefit of humanity, with love and compassion for others. This is not my words alone; it is in the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad SAW,” he said.
Anwar’s remarks underline a broader call for ethical governance, reinforcing that human values must remain central in all spheres of public service to combat corruption effectively and build public trust. - December 8, 2025