Genuine Transformation Key To Building A Just And Sustainable Malaysia - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- Malaysia must embrace a genuine transformation agenda to progress as a nation and build a more just and sustainable society, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the country could no longer rely on outdated systems and practices, stressing that meaningful change must begin with a shift in mindset and a commitment to good governance.

“If this country is to move forward and establish a better society, it cannot sustain the old system. There are some positive aspects we can continue, but change is essential,” he said when officiating the Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) Knowledge Forum 2025 here today.

Anwar said transformation must go beyond slogans or policy rhetoric, noting that reforms would be meaningless unless translated into practical measures and implemented effectively.

“We have been talking about reform and transformation, but the real test for the government, public sector and corporations is how to make these ideas work in practice,” he said.

He said that structural changes would not be possible without integrity and accountability in governance, warning that corruption and abuse of power remain major barriers to national progress.

“How can we talk about transformation if we are still tied to corruption and abuse of power? Challenging political, social and business elites who think they can squander wealth with impunity is not easy, but it must be done,” he said.

Citing the government’s enforcement efforts, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the government has managed to recover about RM15.5 billion in lost revenue from leakages, as well as smuggling and corruption cases over the past two years.

Anwar also highlighted the government’s focus on rationalising subsidies and restructuring the economy, describing these measures as difficult but necessary steps towards long-term transformation.

He added that transformation requires courage and national consensus as it is not just about technology or digitalisation but about fairness, conscience and ensuring that growth benefits all Malaysians.

-- BERNAMA