Protection only for whistleblowers with proven integrity, says Anwar

PETALING JAYA: While whistleblower protection is essential, it should only be granted after an investigation confirms the individual’s integrity, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He emphasised that for protection to be given, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must first conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether the individual is truly “clean.”

Anwar added that those involved in corruption should not expect protection.

Addressing claims that he had received a letter from the supposed whistleblower, Anwar clarified that he had not.

“Not I didn’t get the letter. I am currently in Cairo. But even if I had, I would have forwarded it to the MACC immediately,” he said during a press conference in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday (Nov 12).

Anwar then questioned the request for whistleblower protection before credibility was established.

“Imagine I stole RM1bil, then went to the MACC saying, ‘I want to be a whistleblower, can you protect me?’ Isn’t that a strange request?”

Anwar also responded to critics questioning his silence on the issue and his decision not to intervene.

“I find it strange that some people are asking why the Prime Minister isn’t giving the protection sought by the whistleblower,” he said, stressing that handling such matters is the responsibility of enforcement agencies.

“Do not use the Prime Minister’s position to seek protection,” he said

Anwar also underscored the importance of respecting the investigative process, urging patience and caution.

“We must respect the process. We can’t simply rush it,” Anwar said, adding that he gives full permission to enforcement agencies, including the MACC, to conduct any necessary investigations.