KUALA LUMPUR (March 13): The Malaysian Bar has called for a structured road map that places the state’s commercial activity — government-linked companies (GLCs), government-linked investment companies (GLICs) and statutory bodies — within a clearer and more coherent legal framework.

Malaysian Bar president Datuk Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab in a statement on Thursday emphasised that clear laws do not restrict enterprise — they enable it, creating a principled and transparent system that strengthens the rule of law, boosts investor confidence, and ensures public resources are managed responsibly for the long-term benefit of the nation.

He said a well-defined legal framework can significantly improve governance and compliance. Clear mandates, standards, and oversight reduce the risk of abuse of power, bribery and non-compliance, while accountability becomes institutional rather than ad hoc and enforcement is applied consistently and fairly.

Mohamad Ezri also stressed the importance of separating key roles within these institutions: policymaking, regulation, ownership, and commercial operations should remain distinct. This separation is vital to protect competition, prevent conflicts of interest, and maintain public trust.

Refuting the idea that strong laws and economic growth are in conflict, Mohamad Ezri noted that good governance and a robust legal framework actually support economic development, providing certainty for markets and investors while safeguarding public interest.