Which book says 1MDB debts are all paid? Anwar wants to know

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has refuted the assertion that all 1MDB-related debts have been fully repaid, stating that the government still bears considerable debt obligations. Addressing the finance ministry staff during a monthly assembly, Anwar expressed uncertainty about the origin of the claim, labeling it incorrect.

The finance ministry had previously reported that as of August 31, a payment of RM42.5 billion had been made towards 1MDB-related commitments, encompassing principal repayments, interest, legal fees, and operational expenses. Should no further fund recovery occur, the government will remain accountable for the residual RM20.1 billion, according to the ministry.

Anwar emphasized that the national debt might escalate as the government is perpetually obligated to settle other debts with interest while concurrently addressing current economic requirements. He cautioned that new loans should be made judiciously to avert future generations from shouldering the financial repercussions of excessive spending by the incumbent administration.

"A responsible government only borrows when necessary to sustain the economy, while also consistently planning for the future," Anwar stated. Additionally, Anwar acknowledged that the 2027 budget, although unable to fulfill all demands, garnered public approval due to the government's efforts to address various needs. He cited several initiatives launched subsequent to the budget's announcement, such as the commencement of registrations for homes at Bandar Madani in Sungai Besi by the housing and local government ministry, and a special RM1,000 aid disbursement for taxi drivers by the transport ministry.

Anwar contended that critics of the budget lacked comprehension of the government's economic strategy, urging them to peruse and comprehend the budget he presented in the Dewan Rakyat on October 9. "The haze is in the air, but the budget is not haze. The issue lies in it not being read. If you read it, the figures and data are evident, and it was meticulously prepared," Anwar remarked.