![[UPDATED] Anwar shrugs off Dr M's Batu Puteh dare](https://kritik.com.my/storage/posts/zZtBIkKEdynI7AQT30HXtdiZCN29g4ao4VVv6HoI.webp)
By Fuad Nizam
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has brushed aside Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's call to be charged over the Batu Puteh issue.
When asked by reporters after attending the Finance Ministry's monthly assembly, Anwar responded briefly: "Let it be."
Yesterday, the former prime minister rejected what he described as "immunity" granted to him over the matter, insisting that he be brought to court if any wrongdoing is found.
Dr Mahathir also took aim at Anwar, accusing him of having already "found him guilty", and challenged the government to prove any allegations in court.
Previously, Anwar said the cabinet had decided not to pursue legal action against Dr Mahathir over the Batu Puteh matter, citing his advanced age.
However, he added the government maintained that Dr Mahathir was at fault for withdrawing Malaysia's claim over the island in 2018.
In December 2024, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks, and South Ledge, in a 271-page declassified report tabled in Parliament, recommended that a criminal investigation be launched against Dr Mahathir.
The RCI, chaired by Tun Md Raus Sharif, was tasked with reviewing the handling of matters related to the sovereignty of the contested islands.
The issue stems from a decision made by the government in 2018 to withdraw Malaysia's application to review the International Court of Justice's decision on the sovereignty of Batu Puteh.
At the time, the government was led by Dr Mahathir.
ο»ΏSource : updated-anwar-shrugs-dr-ms-batu-puteh-dare