Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that all procurement decisions of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) related to corruption issues will be temporarily frozen. This step is being taken until the procurement process can be fully complied with without compromise.
The government, through the relevant ministry, will review and restructure each procurement to ensure that the transparency of the system is strengthened. Anwar also praised the actions of the Minister of Defence, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, who came out with a clear statement on the matter.
Previously, the Ministry of Defence planned a major overhaul of its anti-corruption plan this year. It includes a comprehensive review of the tender and procurement processes to be in line with best governance practices. This effort is important to combat leaks and irregularities that can damage the credibility of the national defence institution.
A Bernama report also revealed that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested the former Army Chief and his two wives in connection with the Army procurement project. MACC also seized goods worth RM11.4 million as a result of intelligence at two separate locations in Kuala Lumpur and Besut, Terengganu.
