No promotions for heads of govt units failing to report corruption: Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA— Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that heads of government departments or units will not receive promotions if they fail to report any corruption practices in their respective areas.

This new measure is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle corruption and ensure accountability within the civil service.

Speaking at the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) monthly assembly at Dewan De’ Seri Endon, Puspanitapuri, Anwar said he would propose this rule to the Chief Secretary to the Government in an upcoming meeting focused on civil servant salary adjustments.

“We will establish a rule that prevents heads of government departments or units from being promoted if they fail to report or address corruption within their systems,” Anwar stated during his speech.

Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof were also present at the assembly.

Anwar emphasized that while the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and other authorities are performing their duties effectively, the responsibility to report and address corruption also lies with the heads of government departments and units.

“If it’s clear that certain departments are doing something wrong, why didn’t the head report it? Why was the head of the department not aware? Sometimes I think it’s impossible for them to be unaware of such practices that have been going on for years,” Anwar added.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged improvements in the Auditor-General’s report compared to previous years but stressed the need for further efforts to improve the country’s situation. “There are some improvements in the Auditor-General’s report, but more needs to be done to improve the country’s situation,” he said.

This new measure aims to enhance accountability and transparency within the government, ensuring that those in leadership positions are proactive in combating corruption.