Anwar raises prospect of jail for corrupt leaders

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday called for a stop to "the plundering of the people's wealth", saying those who steal will be put in jail regardless of party or status. 

“The nation is rich, but there have been huge losses, so what we need to do is stop this plundering of the people's wealth. 

"It doesn’t matter if (you) wear religious headgear, a coat or anything else. Whether (you are) a Tan Sri or Tun or from any party for that matter, if you steal money, we will shove you into my (old) cell in Sungai Buloh (prison)," he added. 

"It’s still vacant."

Anwar, at a meet-and-greet session with Balik Pulau residents in Penang, also denied that he was succuming to DAP's wishes in the country's administration, saying he cannot be "bought" as claimed by some. 

"Yes, DAP is our friend, and we only give them positions, but do remember who is still the boss... Do you think I am stupid?

"Anthony Loke is the transport minister, he abides by policies and brings (proposals) to the Cabinet, and only when the prime minister approves, they can be implemented… I am the type that can take all sorts of criticism but to buy out Anwar, its not possible," he was reported as saying. 

He also urged the people of Penang to retain Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders whom he said had been governing the state well. 

He also said that the federal government would continue helping Penang in resolving issues related to the state. 

"(The people of) Penang must give opportunities to capable leaders to govern, I would like to explain here and we must fully understand this. In the past, they were saying that if Anwar was to lead, that would be the end of the Malays (and that) all religious schools will be shut. 

"During campaigns, they said when Anwar becomes prime minister, you can’t wear the hijab anymore. What do you think they are wearing now?

"So I am asking Penang to continue to be strong (under PH rule). I am always in close contact with the chief minister. The federal government will help in whatever way it can, and what the state government is capable of doing, let it handle," he said.