Fri Sep 20 08:45:00 UTC 2024: ## PM Anwar Cancels Berlin Exhibition Trip for 68 Officials, Citing Waste of Public Funds

**PUCHONG, Malaysia** – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has cancelled a planned trip to an exhibition in Berlin, Germany, involving 68 officials from a ministry and agency, citing concerns over the waste of public funds.

The decision, announced after Friday prayers, comes as part of the Madani government’s commitment to reforming civil service institutions and ensuring accountability.

“There was an exhibition in Berlin, small in scale, but I noticed that out of the ministry and agency staff, 68 people had registered to go, even though only a small number were actually involved,” said Anwar. “So, I made the firm decision to cancel the entire trip, even though flight tickets and hotel accommodations had already been arranged.”

Anwar stressed that the move sends a clear message that the government will not tolerate the misuse of public funds. He emphasized that all ministerial overseas trips must now be presented to the Cabinet for approval.

“Usually, we make reductions, determining if two or three staff are necessary and if not, they are asked to postpone or combine their visit with that of the Prime Minister or Deputy Prime Minister. This way, memorandums of understanding can be signed to save costs,” he explained.

Furthermore, the Cabinet has decided that all new projects and overseas trips must be referred to the Chief Secretary to the Government or the director-general before being approved by the respective minister.

Anwar also expressed concerns over the actions of government companies and agencies, emphasizing the need for stricter oversight. He highlighted the importance of ensuring direct accountability by requiring all new projects and overseas trips to be approved by the minister after review by the Chief Secretary or director-general.

This action marks a significant step in the Madani government’s ongoing efforts to address concerns about government efficiency and financial transparency.

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