PM Anwar’s Working Visits: A Potential Conflict of Interest?
PM’s Admission Sparks Concerns
Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim revealed that several companies, including Petronas, Sapura Energy, Yinson, and Proton, had borne 70% to 80% of the cost of his recent working visits to five nations. However, this admission has sparked concerns about a potential conflict of interest.
Bersatu Youth Calls for Investigation
Bersatu Youth chief Hilman Idham has called for Prime Minister Anwar to be investigated, citing possible breaches of the law. He pointed out that if the PM’s claims are true, he may have flouted Section 165 of the Penal Code, which deals with public servants obtaining valuable things without consideration.
A Similarity with Singapore’s S Iswaran
Hilman drew parallels with the corruption charges slapped on Singapore’s former transport minister S Iswaran, who was convicted under the same section of the Penal Code. Iswaran received lavish gifts worth over S$400,000 and was sentenced to a year in prison.
A Deeper Look at the Issue
The issue at hand is whether the PM or government will help these companies in return for their willingness to partly cover the costs of the trips. The provision of Section 165 of the Penal Code is the same in both Malaysia and Singapore, as both countries’ Penal Codes were based on English common law.
A Call for Action
Hilman urged the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to initiate an investigation under Section 16 of the MACC Act for the offence of accepting gratification. He emphasized that the prime minister’s admission has sparked questions and concerns, and that an investigation is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability.
Background Information
In December 2022, the Treasury issued a circular stating that the cost of civil servants’ overseas trips involving any procurement cannot be borne by private companies. The circular emphasized that costs of such trips must be predetermined and included in the contract with the successful tenderer.
Conclusion
The issue at hand is a serious one, and it is essential that the government takes a closer look at the matter. The public has a right to know whether the PM’s working visits were funded by private companies, and if so, what the conditions were. Transparency and accountability are essential in maintaining the trust of the people, and it is crucial that the government upholds these values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the cost of PM Anwar’s working visits to five nations?
A: The cost was partially borne by private companies, with Petronas, Sapura Energy, Yinson, and Proton covering 70% to 80% of the expenses.
Q: What is the provision in the Penal Code related to this issue?
A: Section 165 of the Penal Code deals with public servants obtaining valuable things without consideration from a person concerned in any proceeding or business transacted.
Q: What is the penalty for breaking this provision?
A: The penalty is a fine, imprisonment, or both.
Q: What is the role of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in this issue?
A: The MACC is responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases of corruption, including those related to public servants.