Anwar’s nutmeg story: PM says grandmother’s childhood lesson on theft behind his anti-graft stance

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently emphasized the importance of anti-graft measures while addressing the Youth Economic Forum (YEF) 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. He recounted a childhood lesson from his grandmother, who taught him that theft, regardless of the amount, is a sin and unacceptable. Anwar shared how he had taken four nutmegs from a Chinese farm in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, without permission, and how his grandmother firmly insisted that he return the nuts that same day.

The incident, he said, instilled in him a strong anti-theft stance, which he now seeks to instill in Malaysian youths. He urged them to reject corruption and not compromise, drawing a parallel between small acts of theft and large-scale corruption, such as embezzlement of billions of ringgit in government funds. Anwar criticized those who justify corruption within their own race, questioning the morality and ethics of such actions.

He highlighted Malaysia's potential for growth and prosperity, lamenting the billions of ringgit lost due to corruption in state-owned enterprises like 1Malaysia Development Berhad, Lembaga Tabung Haji, and Felda.