AYER KEROH, Melaka: In a keenly anticipated response following electoral defeats, embattled Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged tougher action against corruption, saying enforcement will be carried out “fiercely” and that he has the king’s backing.Speaking at the party congress of his Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) on Saturday (Aug 15), he framed this as part of a renewed “reformasi” agenda, arguing that political stability and stronger economic performance had given his government space to focus on institutional reforms. “My instructions are clear: anyone who violates the rules, steals assets, or betrays the trust of the people - including the trust involving Muslims, where the losses ultimately have to be paid for by the people - must face action,” said Anwar, who is also PKR president. “So the instruction has been issued: take the strongest possible action. His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong informed me and the ministers last week: do not let this end with Tabung Haji alone. Continue with other (issues),” he added.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) President Anwar Ibrahim (right), also Malaysia's prime minister, at the PKR National Congress 2026 at the Melaka International Trade Centre on Aug 15, 2026. (Photo: CNA/Zamzahuri Abas)
