Anwar: Dr M's sons must return wealth if source can't be proven

New Straits Times

5 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the sons of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to return their wealth to the government if it is proven to have been acquired through unclear or illegitimate means.
In an interview with Indonesian journalist Najwa Shihab in Jakarta, Anwar said the extraordinary wealth amassed by Dr Mahathir's sons raised serious questions that must be addressed, especially considering the vast sums involved.
Commenting on a recent opposition rally led by Pas which heavily criticised his leadership and accused him of corruption during his time in office, Anwar said he had left the matter to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate.
"I don't make baseless accusations against anyone. I've handed the matter over to the MACC.
"But if they themselves admit — not as an accusation but as a declaration — that 'I (Mahathir) or my son own RM1.2 billion, and another one RM4 billion', then the money must be returned.
"You must pay it back, unless you can clearly explain where the funds came from," he said.
Previously, Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir declared assets worth around RM1 billion, while Mirzan Mahathir declared RM246.2 million to the MACC.
Anwar also questioned the opposition's position in defending such individuals, describing it as contradictory to their supposed role in combatting corruption.
"Isn't it odd that the opposition is defending this? They ought to be at the forefront of the anti-corruption fight, yet they're shielding those accused of wrongdoing.
"Why should the son of a prime minister or minister possess billions of ringgit in wealth? This culture must end.
"I want real reform — not just on paper or in regulation, but reform in action."
The interview was conducted during Anwar's two-day working visit to Indonesia, held in conjunction with the 13th Malaysia–Indonesia Annual Leaders' Consultation with President Prabowo Subianto.