Anwar Ibrahim criticizes opposition over Tabung Haji RCI debate

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has criticized opposition lawmakers for engaging in “political theatrics” instead of focusing on the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report regarding Tabung Haji (TH).

During a special sitting of the Dewan Rakyat to discuss the report, members of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition walked out of the chamber. The walkout occurred after Speaker Johari Abdul rejected a request from the opposition to postpone the session. PN argued that the Prime Minister’s presence was necessary for the debate, as he had originally brought the matter to public attention. However, the Speaker ruled that the session could proceed with the Deputy Prime Minister and other ministers representing the Cabinet.

Anwar Ibrahim was unable to attend the session due to recovery from elective laparoscopic surgery to treat an abdominal hernia. In a social media statement, the Prime Minister questioned whether the opposition was more interested in debating his personal status or addressing the alleged “betrayal” of the Muslim community through the mismanagement of Tabung Haji funds.

The RCI report, which was declassified in July, recommends significant reforms for Tabung Haji, including tighter oversight, forensic audits, and limits on political involvement to address previous weaknesses in governance and financial management.