Malaysia’s Anwar vows to boost anti-corruption drive after state poll defeats

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged to accelerate anti-corruption efforts and reinforce his administration's reforms in the wake of his party's electoral setbacks. Despite Malaysia's economic growth and low unemployment rates, Anwar acknowledged growing frustration among citizens due to higher living costs. He admitted that while economic indicators were positive, they were failing to win public support.

PKR and its ruling coalition, Pakatan Harapan, have suffered losses in three consecutive state elections, culminating in the loss of control over Negeri Sembilan. Anwar vowed to proceed with reforms gradually, considering the interests of other coalition partners. He emphasized that reforms could not be rushed and required the collaboration of all parties involved.

Anwar, who is 79 years old, is not in a rush to call for a snap general election, despite the recent electoral defeats. He stated that political stability was satisfactory following three years in power and pledged to intensify reforms. Specifically, he promised to conduct a thorough investigation into any misconduct within the Federal Land Development Authority, Malaysia's agricultural development agency, following a recent mismanagement probe.

Furthermore, Anwar expressed his intention to repeal a law regulating public universities, aiming to increase democratic space. However, he did not provide further details on this promise. The prime minister is expected to address additional concerns raised by party members at the PKR congress, which concluded with his speech. Meanwhile, the Democratic Action Party, a significant component of Pakatan Harapan, will decide at its annual congress whether to withdraw from government positions and support Anwar only from the opposition benches.

If DAP follows through with this decision, it could force Anwar to reshuffle his cabinet and distribute additional portfolios to the Barisan Nasional party. Recent internal conflicts within PKR, including defections of key members and funding cuts, have further complicated Anwar's political landscape.