PETALING JAYA, Dec 22 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) move to investigate and seize Menara Ilham proves the country’s enforcement system does not protect anyone involved in corruption, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said all parties must understand and give space to the investigating body to carry out its duties, including investigations involving influential figures who hold titles or wield power.
The justice and enforcement system, especially relating to integrity, must show example and be bold to act against corrupted individuals
“Let MACC carry out its duties, regardless of position and status…if not (selective investigation), there will be criticism of only catching the small fish and leaving influential people untouched.
“Let there be an investigation so leaders are not seen as being protected by big powers. MACC’s responsibility is to carry out its duties and investigate,” Anwar told the press after performing Friday prayers at Masjid Kota Damansara today.
Simultaneously, the Prime Minister urged the public not to make any intrepretation or impression that the government has a certain ploy whenever there are investigations involving influential figures.
“Do not assume that each time there is an investigation on an influential person means we (government) have an ulterior motive; if it involves ordinary people, then it is normal,” he said.
Anwar was commenting on the action of MACC in seizing Menara Ilham in Jalan Binjai, Kuala Lumpur.
The notice of seizure on the 60-storey building dated December 18 was published through the notification section of a news portal yesterday, which was signed off by MACC deputy public prosecutor Ahmad Akram Gharib.
In other developments, Anwar said the awarding and implementation of the Multi-Lane Free-Flow (MLFF) project for the toll collection system on the highways was done according to a normal and transparent process.
“It will go through a normal process; there is no basis whatsoever to assume the process will go through a negotiated tender. No.
“It will have to go a proper and transparent process as we have made it clear before,” he said.
Anwar was commenting on media reports over the “appointment agreement” on awarding concession for the MLFF toll plaza project, which was signed between the caretaker government and a private company two days before the 15th general election.
However, Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi recently said the project award has yet to be finalised.
Commenting on the announcement on the electricity tariff this evening, Anwar said all announcements relating to giving targeted subsidies are good news which will benefit the people.
— Bernama
