Malaysia: Ex-PM Aide Charged with Bribery, Tests Anwar Ibrahim's Anti-Corruption Pledge Amid Sabah Mining Scandal

Malaysia's Anti-Graft Efforts Under Scrutiny as Ex-PM Aide Faces Bribery Charges

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian authorities have intensified their focus on corruption, officially charging Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, formerly a top political aide to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, with receiving substantial bribes. This development places renewed pressure on Premier Anwar's administration and his commitment to tackling corruption, a key promise from his 2022 election campaign.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct and Influence Peddling

According to court documents unsealed on Thursday, Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, who recently stepped down as Anwar's senior political secretary, is accused of accepting 176,829 ringgit (approximately $42,961 USD) from a local businessman. The alleged payments were made in exchange for his assistance in securing mineral mining licenses within Sabah state, among other unspecified favors.

Shamsul Iskandar has vehemently denied the allegations, pleading not guilty in court. His lawyer, Amer Hamzah Arshad, confirmed that his client was granted bail pending trial. Iskandar himself has labeled the charges an “attack” and has vowed to mount a vigorous defense.

Anwar's Stance and Public Reaction

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's office has declined to comment directly on the ongoing legal proceedings. However, in a statement released last week, Anwar acknowledged and accepted Shamsul Iskandar’s resignation, emphasizing that investigative authorities should be allowed to proceed “without any external interference.”

The high-profile case has reignited public debate and concerns among opposition parties and civil society groups regarding the government’s sincerity in its anti-corruption drive. Critics argue that the allegations against a former close associate of the Prime Minister undermine his reform efforts and could erode public trust in both the government and its anti-graft institutions. While Anwar took office on a strong anti-corruption platform, he has faced accusations of wavering on promised reforms, a claim he consistently refuses, reiterating his dedication to fighting graft.

Co-Accused Businessman Also Pleads Not Guilty

In a related development, Albert Tei, the businessman implicated in making the alleged payments to Shamsul Iskandar, also appeared in court on Thursday. He was charged with bribery and, like Iskandar, pleaded not guilty. His lawyer, Rajesh Nagarajan, confirmed his client's plea. Both Shamsul Iskandar and Tei face severe penalties if convicted, including potential jail sentences of up to 20 years and substantial fines.