Perai: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reminded all parties not to continue the cartel practices that burden the people through excessive price hikes across various sectors, including defence, healthcare, and construction. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the existence of cartels not only puts pressure on the public but also causes wastage of government funds, hindering efforts to improve public facilities and essential services.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar urged against relying on cartels that oppress the people by excessively raising prices in sectors such as defence, healthcare, and construction. He delivered this message during his speech at the launch of a new block at Seberang Jaya Hospital, Perai. He pointed out that cartel dominance in procurement systems and specific markets leads to unreasonable price increases, making it difficult for the government to allocate additional funds for development projects like building hospitals, clinics, and public facilities in other areas.
He further emphasised the government's commitment to governance reforms, highlighting the importance of strengthening transparency in procurement processes to prevent the wastage or misuse of public funds. The prime minister also underscored the need for integrity in the national defence sector, asserting that procurement management must remain free from cartel influence to maintain the credibility of the security forces and ensure that every defence expenditure provides maximum benefit to the nation.
Anwar stressed the necessity of pursuing the fight against cartels and eliminating waste across all ministries and departments, allowing any savings to be redirected to benefit the public through improved facilities, assistance, and enhanced well-being. He also warned against using isolated incidents as a reason to penalise the entire Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) or security forces, recognising the significant sacrifices made by soldiers and police personnel stationed at borders, waters, and remote areas to ensure the country's security.
He concluded by reiterating the importance of upholding the integrity and credibility of the security forces, as they are crucial to national stability and investor confidence in Malaysia's economic outlook.