ISTANBUL

Malaysia has temporarily halted army and police procurement decisions linked to an ongoing corruption probe, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Friday.

Anwar said the government will review and restructure procurement processes to improve transparency and governance, according to the state-run news agency.

“We take this seriously, and I will await reports on any loopholes or weaknesses in the current procurement system so that we can review and restructure it to ensure full compliance,” Anwar said.

The announcement follows the arrest on Jan. 7 of a former army chief and his two wives by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in connection with a military procurement project.

Authorities also seized assets worth 11.4 million Malaysian ringgit ($2.8 million) during multiple raids linked to the investigation.

The Defense Ministry had been planning a major overhaul of its anti-corruption framework this year to curb leakages, irregularities, and abuse of power.

“We are deeply troubled by these developments, and without decisive, across-the-board action, the people’s economy will suffer serious consequences,” Anwar said.

He stressed that the government will not interfere with enforcement investigations and said firm action is essential to protect economic stability and public trust.