If the Unity Government is serious about reform, it must begin by fulfilling two of Pakatan Harapan’s own core commitments: the Prime Minister must not simultaneously hold the Finance Minister portfolio, and MACC Chief Commissioner Azam Baki must be removed.

We acknowledge that meaningful reform takes time. But after more than three years in power, the Unity Government can no longer hide behind slogans, shifting timelines, or excuses such as “needing voter feedback”. Certain reforms are straightforward, cost nothing, and can be implemented immediately — if there is political will.

During the last general election, DAP’s Hannah Yeoh publicly and forcefully argued that the Prime Minister should not also serve as Finance Minister. Her message was clear, and it resonated strongly with voters. Yet today, Pakatan Harapan has conveniently abandoned the very principles it used to gain public support.

After Dato’ Sri Najib’s administration, three Prime Ministers — Tun Dr Mahathir, Tan Sri Muhyiddin, and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri — successfully governed without holding the Finance Ministry. This demonstrates not only that separation of powers is possible, but that it is essential for good governance.

Pakatan Harapan, which once championed the principle that the Prime Minister must not also be Finance Minister, is now violating its own pledge. This is not reform — it is a betrayal of the public.

The issues surrounding Tan Sri Azam Baki are equally serious. He has long been embroiled in controversies, from the million-ringgit share scandal to questions over investigations, lack of transparency, slow enforcement, and allegations of selective action. These have eroded public trust and created the perception of double standards at the highest level of anti-corruption enforcement.

Despite widespread concerns, the Unity Government not only retained him but extended his tenure twice. Even PKR Vice-President Nurul Izzah publicly rejected the extension, describing it as an “unwelcome decision”. The issues are well known and cannot be dismissed.

If the government is genuine about reform, it can demonstrate sincerity today by taking two immediate steps:

          1.       The Prime Minister relinquishes the Finance Ministry portfolio.

          2.       Remove Azam Baki as MACC Chief Commissioner.

These actions require no additional expenditure, no complex processes, and can immediately improve public confidence and governance integrity.

If the Unity Government wishes to restore credibility, it must act — not continue making promises it refuses to honour. Reform cannot wait any longer.

Datuk Chong Sin Woon
MCA Secretary General

5 December 2025

-MCA Comm-