PM: Batu Puteh RCI shows treacherous failure to defend country

 

The findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into sovereignty issues surrounding Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks, and South Ledge revealed a failure that is tantamount to treachery, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Speaking to reporters earlier today, he said the country’s sovereignty is a matter that must be defended at all costs.

However, the RCI has revealed that the government then, which was under the leadership of Dr Mahathir Mohamad, had failed to do so, according to Anwar.

“The RCI revealed a weakness, or even treachery if looked from an angle. Because every inch of our land must be defended at all costs.

“But here we see there was a failure (to do that). This was shown (in the RCI),” he said.

Anwar spoke to reporters after performing Friday prayers in Putrajaya this afternoon.

He was asked to comment on the RCI report, which recommended a criminal investigation against Mahathir.

Deceiving the cabinet

Among others, the inquiry accused Mahathir of deceiving the cabinet in 2018 into withdrawing Malaysia's review of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision to award sovereignty over Batu Puteh to Singapore.

It also opined that Malaysia has a fighting chance to overturn the court decision.

Adding further, Anwar regarded the surrendering of a country’s sovereignty as treason instead of a minor infraction.

“However, the rule of law must be respected.

“So will see to the next process,” the premier said. - Mkini