The world knows Malaysia ‘tainted’ by kleptocracy - PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim describes Malaysia as being tainted by kleptocrats.

He said kleptocracy was a system that involved many parties, whether they had or had not been charged.

"The world knows that Malaysia is polluted," he said in his speech at the Finance Ministry monthly gathering here, today.

He said politicians do not need to shout about being clean unless they could record a good performance.

Although it was hard to make changes to fight corruption in the system, Anwar said he was determined and did not want to compromise even if the task was difficult.

"If we refuse, it's a big risk because we're facing the rich and powerful with high titles (such as) Datuk Seri, Tan Sri, Tun... So, we're ready," he said.

He emphasised that all enforcement agencies needed to take immediate action if they find a collision at various levels regardless of position.

"We take action, especially in terms of law based on facts and law," he said.

Anwar said that the past practice and culture of approving projects without complying with the rules should no longer be continued.

"Now it is up to the director-general, department heads, ministry leaders to ensure that this does not happen at all levels," he said.