KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that leaders of government-linked companies will be fully accountable if they betray the bumiputra agenda. The Prime Minister made this statement while acknowledging that incompetence and poor governance have led to the government spending billions of dollars to protect bumiputra holdings.
According to Anwar, the managing professionals must take complete responsibility, and strict action will be taken. He emphasized that such betrayal undermines the hopes and trust placed on the bumiputra.
During the launch of an additional RM1 billion for the Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera Scheme (AHB) on Tuesday (Oct 17), Anwar referred to these leaders as “traitors” who have caused billions in losses that could have been used for the betterment of the people.
Using Felda as an example, Anwar highlighted the poor management and weak governance that has required an RM8.3 billion injection from the government.
Without specifying the company, Anwar mentioned another case where the government needs to provide a RM2.7 billion injection to save it from failure.
Additionally, Anwar called for an end to favoritism-based practices within government-linked bumiputra companies. He expressed the need for a shift in how opportunities are granted, making sure they are not limited to a few individuals seeking personal enrichment at the expense of other bumiputra companies.
However, the Prime Minister commended Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad (PHB) as an example of a government-linked company that has performed well. He praised their profit stability and management, noting their contribution to educating and guiding bumiputra in investing for their future.
In other news, Anwar announced that individual bumiputra investors can now purchase up to RM1 million worth of AHB.
