Anwar questions criticism when government acts to protect public funds

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed confusion over the criticism the government faced for taking action on issues involving the loss or leakage of public funds during a recent event. He compared the dilemma to the Tabung Haji situation, where failure to address the issue led to losses for the country, yet criticism was inevitable when steps were taken to investigate the matter.

Anwar, who serves as Finance Minister, emphasized that if allegations of public funds lost arose, an investigation must be conducted to determine the origin, timing, and responsibility behind the loss. He clarified that government action did not equate to immediate guilt, as investigations and legal proceedings must follow based on evidence.

Anwar stated that if strong evidence emerged, the case would be brought to court for the judge to determine guilt or innocence, and the appropriate legal consequences would follow. The primary objective, he said, was to protect public funds and ensure their benefits reached the people, highlighting that Malaysia's issues stemmed from loss through leakages, rather than a lack of resources.

Despite criticism, Anwar reiterated that the government's primary responsibility was to safeguard the interests of the people and the nation.