Tabung Haji and FELDA Probes Will Extend Beyond RCI Scope with Firm, Fast Action, Says PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 18 — Enforcement and investigative authorities are free to expand their probes into Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) beyond the original scope and timeframe examined by the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim declared today.

Speaking to reporters following the closing ceremony of the Budget 2027 engagement session, Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, described the RCI findings as merely the foundation or “parent” framework for broader institutional scrutiny. He stressed that investigative agencies face no restrictions in probing potential irregularities that occurred before or after the designated RCI period.

“Indeed, right now, all actions and studies go beyond the RCI. The RCI is the parent. There is no obstacle to studies before and after and this is what the enforcement and investigation bodies are doing,” Anwar stated.

During his closing speech at the event, the Prime Minister ordered that follow-up actions regarding TH be executed firmly and without delay. While reaffirming his commitment not to interfere in investigative or prosecutorial processes, Anwar disclosed that relevant authorities have been instructed to brief the Malay Rulers on the matter, adding that he had personally briefed His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.

“It so happens that in this case, the King gave simple, firm guidelines. So it makes our actions easier…and my instructions are that we cannot interfere in the investigation, we cannot prosecute. But I can give general instructions. Firm, fast. Don’t give excuses, don’t be afraid of anyone. We must act,” Anwar said.

The Prime Minister emphasized that resolute action without compromise is necessary to save the nation, even if doing so involves significant political backlash. He signaled that following the TH investigations, the government will turn its attention to governance issues surrounding the Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA).

Acknowledging the complex political landscape, Anwar expressed complete willingness to bear the consequences of tackling deeply entrenched governance issues.

“I’m not giving excuses. I’m just saying these are the stark political realities that we have to face,” Anwar remarked. “If you ask me, I have announced and prepared to take the risk. I’m taking the risk, and I’m moving forward…It has caused a heavy political price. And I think at my age, I shouldn’t worry too much about that.”

Anwar reiterated his uncompromising stance on corruption and administrative failures, particularly when large public funds are involved. Linking governance directly to Budget 2027, he warned that financial leakages and weak oversight deprive the government of funds needed to serve the public.

The Budget 2027 engagement meeting was attended by Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Treasury Secretary-General Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican.

Carrying the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Reaching to the Sky, Rooted in the Earth,” Budget 2027 marks the fifth national budget under the MADANI administration. Nearly 400 representatives across government agencies, private industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, and international bodies contributed views to assist in budget preparation.

–NMT