Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has voiced alarm over what he describes as a growing trend of “glorifying bribe givers”, warning that such attitudes undermine the nation’s fight against corruption.
Speaking at the Works Ministry’s monthly assembly in Kuala Lumpur, Anwar lamented that Malaysians often proclaim a hatred for corruption yet react defensively when enforcement actions involve political allies.
“We say we hate corruption, but when action is taken and it involves our friends, we get angry. Worse still, we now have a trend of deifying and glorifying those who give bribes. This is extremely disturbing because it will not uplift our state or our country,” he said, as reported by Bernama.
Although he did not specify what spurred the remarks, the comments came days after his former political secretary Shamsul Iskandar Akin claimed trial to five corruption charges. Shamsul is accused of receiving bribes from businessperson Albert Tei, who sought help to secure mining exploration licences in Sabah.
Tei has publicly alleged that he channelled money to various politicians in exchange for mineral rights that never materialised. The prosecution alleges he spent RM629,000 on Shamsul, believing it would help recover funds already paid to other political figures.
While Tei’s lawyer has argued that his client deserves to be “rewarded” for exposing alleged political corruption, differing views have emerged. Former MACC chief Latheefa Koya said it is counterproductive to prosecute individuals who come forward with information, whereas current chief commissioner Azam Baki maintains Tei is not protected under the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 because he participated in corrupt dealings.
Anwar reiterated that the fight against corruption requires consistent public support, not selective outrage.
