PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim called today for the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 to be reviewed with a view to expanding protection and avenues for disclosures.

Speaking at the International Malaysia Law Conference this morning, the Tambun MP recalled the prevalence of corruption and power abuse in the country’s history.

“From the history lessons, we know that it was corruption and bribery that constituted one of the primary causes for the collapse of the Roman Empire and subsequent empires as well. And it is not just the existence of corruption but the scale (of it) and the long-term global effects that should concern us all,” he said in his opening speech.

“Much has been said about my so-called pre-occupation with the issue of corruption and that not a day goes by without me shouting myself hoarse about waging war on corruption. While we have no empire as such, nevertheless our nation’s history is marred by abuse of power and corruption no less.

“This scourge has permeated the fabric of our society, stymied our progress and national aspirations and undermined our foundations of good governance. 

“In this regard, the time has come for a review of the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 with a view to expanding protection and the avenues for disclosures to appropriate agencies without fear of punishment.”

Anwar admitted that the judiciary had been undermined by the blatant violation of the principle of separation of powers by those in power.

Without mentioning names, Anwar said that this has emasculated the judicial process, particularly in cases involving politicians who had posed a threat to the government .

He stressed that he would defend the independence of the judiciary at all costs.

“Being held to ransom by the said personalities, certain judges consequently made judicial decisions which completely offended our sense of justice and good conscience.”

“Nevertheless, as I stand here today, I can say with utmost certainty that since my taking office as prime minister, not only have I not encroached upon even a single inch of this sacred terrain, but that I shall defend, at all costs, the independence of the judiciary.”

In 2022, some 500 lawyers gathered near Parliament to protest attacks on a Court of Appeal judge, which they said subverted the independence of the judiciary.

Organised by the Malaysian Bar, the protest came amid rising concern over rampant online vitriol launched against one of the judges who had found former prime minister Najib Razak guilty of embezzling funds from a 1Malaysia Development Bhd subsidiary.

President Karen Cheah said the protest was meant to send a loud message that efforts to intimidate the judiciary must not be tolerated. – July 10, 2023.