PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim wants the Finance Ministry (MOF) to uplift its dignity and be feared for its strict principles of governance.

Speaking at the ministry’s monthly assembly in Putrajaya today, Anwar, who is also finance minister, said ministry staff should carry out their tasks strictly including terms of procurement and distribution of allocation.

Ministry staff should not allow any malpractice to happen, like cheating and taking advantage of contracts for personal gains.

“MOF needs to be feared because of its strict governance,” he added.

Also present at the assembly were Deputy Finance Minister Ahmad Maslan and Treasury secretary-general Johan Mahmood @ Johan Mahmood Merican.

“I hope MOF can emerge as a strong ministry in terms of governance, intelligence and commitment,” he said.

Anwar said MOF should be firm in carrying out its tasks in line with the government’s mission to fight power abuse and corruption.

“The issue of ‘governance’ is serious because if it is not done firmly, the country will fail,” he said.

He added that the unity government under his leadership is determined to develop the country to be a great nation in the region and the world. – Bernama, March 7, 2023.