Speaking at the 59th anniversary celebration of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) today, Anwar said such actions have resulted in the loss of significant funds from initiatives that were intended to help the Bumiputera community.

“Do not use the Malay identity simply to enrich yourselves. Do not take advantage of opportunities and initiatives meant for the Bumiputeras and abuse the trust placed in you,” he said.

“We will fight such people. How much of the funds allocated for initiatives to help the Bumiputeras have been lost due to mismanagement and poor governance?”

He added that Mara should take a more proactive role in countering sentiments that weaken and dampen the spirit of the Malay and Bumiputera communities.

“We must correct misguided perceptions that undermine and weaken our people’s spirit. We must prove otherwise and I want Mara to take on this role.”

Anwar also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

He said the government would not bow down to pressure from those who question its decision to require 70% of students under the education ministry and Mara to pursue STEM fields beginning next year.

He expressed concern over the declining interest among Malay and Bumiputera students in STEM, warning of its long-term consequences.

“If parents or (some) political leaders object, we must have the strength to say no (to them),” he said.

“This is because we want the Malays and Bumiputeras to thrive in this era of development.”