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Prime ministers

Anwar Ibrahim Clarifies Government's Decision on Batu Puteh Claim

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Malaysian government, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has clarified that it did not bypass the attorney-general in deciding not to pursue legal action against former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad over the withdrawal of Malaysia's claim on Batu Puteh in 2018. The cabinet had reviewed the Royal Commission of Inquiry's (RCI) recommendations for a criminal investigation into Dr Mahathir but decided not to proceed due to the absence of a police investigation. Anwar emphasized that the decision was not unilateral and was made after considering the context and circumstances.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Malaysian government did not bypass the attorney-general in deciding not to pursue legal action against Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
  • The cabinet reviewed the Royal Commission of Inquiry's (RCI) recommendations for a criminal investigation into Dr Mahathir but decided not to proceed due to the absence of a police investigation.
  • The decision not to pursue legal action was made after considering the context and circumstances, and was not a unilateral decision.
  • Dr Mahathir rejected the notion of "immunity" and said he was ready to face legal action.
  • The prime minister was not persuaded by the Perikatan Nasional (PN) motion to refer him to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Privileges.
  • Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to help de-escalate the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, and stressed that the government would not take lightly the potential impact on regional instability.

Statistics:

  • Batu Puteh is a territorial dispute between Malaysia and Singapore.
  • The Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) recommended a criminal investigation into Dr Mahathir Mohamad over the withdrawal of Malaysia's claim on Batu Puteh.
  • The Malaysian government reviewed the RCI's recommendations and decided to treat the matter as a lesson, rather than pursue legal action.
  • 50th Prime Minister's Cup Debate Championship 2025 took place on the same day.

Sources:

  • news@nst.com.my
  • The Star Online

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