Anwar apologises for sitting out Tabung Haji RCI debate post-surgery

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has apologized for missing the special Dewan Rakyat sitting to debate the royal commission of inquiry (RCI) report on the Tabung Haji (TH). The surgery was performed to treat an abdominal hernia. Anwar's senior press secretary, Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, stated that the prime minister's health is improving and that he would continue with physiotherapy.

Anwar expressed regret for not being able to attend the debate on the RCI report concerning the TH. He hoped that the proceedings would proceed without any issues. He emphasized that he would closely monitor the debate to ensure the protection of the trust and responsibilities of this Islamic institution.

Perikatan Nasional had suggested postponing the special sitting to allow Anwar to recuperate from his surgery. Its secretary-general, Takiyuddin Hassan, argued that given the public interest and significance of the TH issue, Anwar should personally table the report. However, the report is now expected to be presented by Religious Affairs Minister Zulkifli Hasan, who is likely to conclude the debate alongside Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan.

The RCI report on the TH was declassified and released to the public on July 29, four years after the commission completed its work in July 2022. The report revealed significant shortcomings in the governance, investment, and financial management of the TH from 2014 to 2020. It recommended a comprehensive overhaul, including stricter oversight, forensic audits of selected investments, and restrictions on political involvement within the institution.