Defence System Procurement Now On G2G Basis To Curb Corruption - Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- The MADANI government remains consistent in its efforts to combat corruption, even with the procurement of defence systems now conducted on a Government-to-Government (G2G) basis without the involvement of agents or commissions, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the government recently held discussions with France and Italy to ensure transparency in defence procurement deals.

“This is unheard of, because procurement of weapons has historically been one of the most corrupt areas, where people steal money.

“So, what is our basic principle? Go directly government to government, and avoid this manner of taking or squandering money through so-called commissions,” he said in an interview on France 24, published on the network’s online platform today.

Speaking in the ‘Tête-à-tête’ programme hosted by Marc Perelman, Anwar was asked about allegations that he was pursuing a political vendetta against former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his family via investigations by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

Anwar responded that anti-corruption probes have been conducted transparently involving many leaders, including those aligned with the government coalition and Sabah state assemblymen, among others.

“It’s not about whether someone is a former finance minister or prime minister, it doesn’t matter. The question is how did you get these billions? The children themselves have declared under oath that they have more than a billion….

“...I believe it is my duty to ensure that this kind of corruption stops. Secondly, any funds stolen from the people must be returned, we want to improve our schools, we want to help the poor,” he said.

Anwar, who is now attending BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, had previously embarked on his working visits to Rome, Italy and Paris, France since July 1, before arriving in the Brazilian city on Saturday.

-- BERNAMA