Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized that he is exercising the power entrusted to him to recover illegally acquired funds and return them to the people.
The Prime Minister stated that while he is aware of increasing calls for his resignation, his actions do not signify a deviation from the will of the people.
He stressed that individuals who have accumulated wealth through improper means must return it to the country, especially given Malaysia’s substantial national debt. He warned that if this debt remains unresolved, the nation could face bankruptcy.
“Look at the rich who have amassed billions. There is even a child of a former leader who declared to the MACC that their assets exceed RM1 billion,” he said.
“If you want to claim to fight for the Malays, go ahead. If you’re working for the betterment of Malays, continue. But if you’ve taken RM1 billion, return it.”
“People say I’m abusing my power. Yes, I am indeed using this opportunity as Prime Minister to ensure money obtained through illegal means is returned to the people,” he asserted.
Anwar made these remarks today during the launch of the Bumiputera Economic Transformation Master Plan, the Tunas MADANI program, and the JKPSB Housing Project at the Grand Hall of Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Penang.
He also highlighted that Malaysia is not alone in facing economic challenges, as the entire world is currently experiencing economic uncertainty. However, he believes these challenges can be effectively managed with strong political stability.
“Are we (Malaysia) free of problems? The whole world is currently facing economic turmoil. I’m not saying this out of emotion. People criticize me every day—that’s their job,” he said.
“They say I’m oppressive, that I burden the people (with taxes), but what we are doing is based on policy. Take for example the 15% increase in electricity charges—it applies only to large industries making huge profits. So they should pay more. Why the fuss?”
“If we don’t collect taxes, where will we get the funds for education and better job opportunities? And it’s a tax on the rich—why complain? Our national debt is enormous; if it remains unpaid, we will go bankrupt,” he explained.
In a related development, Anwar stated that in the nearly three years he has served as Prime Minister, he has not taken any salary, which if accumulated could amount to several million ringgit.
“I don’t take a salary—not because I’m poor. I accept my MP allowance, that’s enough. Many others are in greater need,” he clarified.
“All of my official travel, including flights from Kuala Lumpur, is on government aircraft. Even helicopter trips are on government aircraft.”
“If you add up all the salary and allowances, including from my role as Chairman of Khazanah, it could be around RM3 to RM4 million. But I don’t take it. I’m not saying this to boast, but it’s enough for me to care for the welfare of others,” he concluded.
