He said this must be done before tackling the structural problems that undermine the country’s economic strength.

During a live address to the nation tonight, Anwar said corruption is the primary cancer that weakens the country’s economy, eroding morals and diminishing people’s confidence.

He added that corruption occurs at every level, top to bottom, burdening the people at the whims of certain groups seeking commissions before giving any approvals.

“In the first year itself, I stressed the need to stop the practice of direct negotiation in government procurement, referred to as negotiated tender, and to transition to an open tender system,” he said.

Earlier, Anwar stated that the stagnant economy, the lacklustre business ecosystem, and the weak financial position of the federal government are the structural problems that have an impact on the country’s economic strength.