Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for a special parliamentary sitting to allow an open debate on a report concerning the Tabung Haji pilgrimage fund, according to Malay Mail.
The report, produced by a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI), uncovered tens of millions of ringgit in excessive bonuses and provisions at the fund, The Edge Malaysia reported. Anwar stated that a dedicated session is necessary for lawmakers to discuss the findings publicly, the outlet said.
The RCI findings have prompted further action, with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) forming a task force to examine the alleged misgovernance at Tabung Haji, according to The Star. The report also indicated that political pressure during elections influenced decisions to pay high dividends, Malaysiakini reported.
The South China Morning Post noted that Anwar's push for a debate comes ahead of a state election in Negeri Sembilan, suggesting a political dimension to the timing of the call.
The next step will be whether Parliament schedules the special sitting Anwar has requested.
