Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he had empowered enforcement agencies to do the necessary in the fight against corruption.
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warned the “small segment” of civil servants who were persisting in their “irresponsible corrupt ways” that they will be dealt with severely.
He also said the government would ensure the recovery of at least some of the billions of ringgit that were “squandered” by former leaders.
He said he had empowered enforcement agencies to do the necessary to battle corruption, including monitoring the expenses of government-linked companies (GLCs).
“There is a small segment of them (in the civil service and GLCs) who are irresponsible and stuck in their old ways. Picking up ‘goodies’, as well as adding extra expenses here and there. I will not compromise with this carelessness that has ruined this country.
“I know that a majority of civil servants understand (what is right), but we have to rid ourselves of this small group of (corrupt) people. I hope they will repent,” he said when speaking at Masjid Putra in Putrajaya tonight.
“There are people earning RM40 a day, but we allow those taking RM4 million a day to carry on with their ways.
“People tell me, ‘Anwar, let bygones be bygones’. But this plundering of the country’s wealth (is something) I will not let go.”
Anwar said the tough stance on corruption was necessary to boost confidence among domestic and foreign investors.
He also said while the government set its sight on improving the economy, it would not be done at the expense of the poor.
“What’s the use of allowing mega projects when we don’t really care about the downtrodden?”
Earlier, Anwar took part in special prayers for the coming new year, led by religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar.