A Nation of Investigated Prime Ministers: Malaysia’s Disturbing Leadership Trend

A Nation of Investigated Prime Ministers: Malaysia’s Disturbing Leadership Trend


6 Mar 2025 • 9:00 AM MYT



Mihar Dias
A behaviourist by training, a consultant and executive coach by profession

Photo Credit: Borneo Post

By Mihar Dias March 2025


It is becoming increasingly difficult to keep track of Malaysian prime ministers who are not under investigation.

With the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) confirming that Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (PM9) is now a suspect in a corruption probe, he joins an exclusive club already occupied by Datuk Seri Najib Razak (PM6) and Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (PM8).


This disturbing trend raises serious questions about the integrity of Malaysia’s highest office and whether corruption is an inevitable feature of the country’s political leadership.


Ismail Sabri, who once portrayed himself as an accidental prime minister simply holding the fort, is now accused of something far less passive—embezzling public funds to finance his administration’s publicity drive. https://newswav.com/A2503_zd2GVC?s=A_r2VjPGD&language=en


The allegations include the seizure of RM170 million in cash and RM7 million in gold bars, reportedly stashed away in safes within a rented flat, as well as the freezing of multiple accounts. https://newswav.com/A2503_zd2GVC?s=A_r2VjPGD&language=en


If these claims hold, the so-called “Keluarga Malaysia” leader may have been more focused on personal wealth than national unity.


The MACC’s Growing List of VIP Suspects


The MACC’s decision to name Ismail Sabri as a suspect marks a shift from their usual cryptic approach when investigating high-profile figures.


For weeks, the public was left in suspense as the agency investigated whether Ismail was merely a witness or directly involved.


Now, the answer is clear: the former prime minister is very much in the crosshairs.


If Ismail is charged, he will follow in the footsteps of Najib, who is already serving time for 1MDB-related crimes, and Muhyiddin, who has faced multiple charges related to COVID-era stimulus fund mismanagement. https://newswav.com/A2503_zd2GVC?s=A_r2VjPGD&language=en


At this rate, it seems Malaysia’s prime ministers are more likely to end up in the dock than leave office with their reputations intact.


A Rotten System or Just Rotten Leaders?


What does it say about Malaysia’s political system when three out of the last four prime ministers are investigated for corruption? Either the office itself breeds corrupt behavior, or the individuals who ascend to it do so with the expectation of plundering the national coffers.


Some might argue that the MACC’s aggressive pursuit of former leaders is a sign of progress—that no one, not even a prime minister, is above the law. But others will see it as proof that corruption is so deeply embedded in Malaysian politics that each new leader is simply waiting for their turn to be investigated.


The trend also suggests that power struggles within Malaysia’s political elite often extend beyond elections and into courtrooms.


With every new administration, there is a fresh round of accusations, investigations, and attempts to discredit predecessors. Whether these charges stem from genuine anti-corruption efforts or political vendettas is another debate entirely.


What’s Next for Ismail Sabri?


For now, Ismail Sabri is still walking free, but with his assets declared and more witnesses being called in, the walls are closing in.


If charges are brought, Malaysia may soon witness yet another ex-premier fighting for his political survival in court.


As Malaysians watch yet another national leader face scrutiny over alleged corruption, a cynical question arises: who will be next?


If recent history is any indication, PM10 might want to start getting his paperwork in order.