Anwar Pledges Landmark Reforms for 2026: PM Term Limits, Institutional Overhaul

Anwar Ibrahim is under pressure to deliver concrete reforms after two years in power

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim declared 2026 a pivotal year for delivering long-promised reforms, emphasising execution over announcements during his New Year address at the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly in Putrajaya on January 5.

Framing the year as a “test of execution,” Anwar stressed leveraging political stability to address governance weaknesses, eradicate corruption, improve service delivery, and alleviate cost-of-living pressures—especially following Pakatan Harapan’s setbacks in the recent Sabah state polls.

Landmark Reforms

Key institutional reforms include tabling a bill to limit the prime minister’s tenure to two terms or 10 years, extending similar restrictions to senior civil service posts for leadership renewal. Parliament, reconvening on January 19, will prioritise separating the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor’s roles, alongside an Ombudsman Bill for public accountability and a Freedom of Information Act—with national security safeguards—to enhance transparency in procurement and decisions.

Fight against corruption

Anwar reiterated uncompromising anti-corruption enforcement while upholding rule of law.

On civil service, he defended the RM18 billion salary hike as fairness after 12 years, demanding reciprocity through reduced bureaucracy, faster approvals, and digitalisation, including AI integration in processes. The early 2026 Expenditure Warrant aims to accelerate rural infrastructure projects.

For households, targeted aid continues: Sumbangan Asas Rahmah up to RM200 monthly from January 9, Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah from January 20, expanded discounted sales events, and SME tax reliefs like e-invoicing delays.

With state elections looming in Melaka and Sarawak, these measures signal Anwar’s bid to rebuild trust ahead of national polls by 2028.

Business News