Anwar: Manage govt funds with care or face arrest, charges

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of responsibly handling government funds during the closing ceremony of the 2026 National Hawkers and Small Traders Day Carnival. As Finance Minister, Anwar warned that strict measures would be taken against anyone who betrayed the trust placed in them by misusing funds.

Agencies like the National Entrepreneurial Group Economic Fund (TEKUN Nasional), Bank Rakyat, and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) bear a significant responsibility to ensure that funds reach their intended beneficiaries without any loss or misappropriation. He stated, "Manage these funds properly... This is money held in trust. If you breach that trust, you will be arrested and charged. Only then can we safeguard our country."

Anwar pointed out that the Madani Government's efficient and transparent management has enabled increased assistance and allocations for the people. This includes the RM16 billion total for welfare aid, such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), and the RM18 billion for civil servants' salary adjustments.

He clarified that this was possible due to the government's improved management of public finances, devoid of leakage, misappropriation, or corruption. Anwar assured that the government remains committed to addressing issues nationwide, including in opposition-governed states, without discrimination. He pledged to resolve the people's concerns, irrespective of political affiliation, such as reinstating special assistance for religious teachers and repairing neglected school buildings.

Anwar urged all parties to uphold values of decency, morality, and integrity for the country's prosperity, urging them not to defend abuses of power and corruption.