Malaysia PM Anwar’s aide resigns amid hospital contractor letter controversy

Shamsul Iskandar resigns over controversial hospital contractor letter sparking debate and ethical concerns in Anwar’s administration

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Shamsul Iskandar (left), is pictured beside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Photo: Handout

Published: 8:02pm, 25 Nov 2025

The senior political secretary to the Malaysian prime minister, has resigned following public controversy over a contractor support letter.

Announcing his decision on social media on Tuesday, Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin stated he resigned to “defend myself” against attacks regarding his involvement in issuing a letter of support for contractors on a hospital project.

He expressed concerns that the controversy could “tarnish the image of the government”.

The resignation follows Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s confirmation in parliament on November 18 that he reprimanded a political secretary over the letter, which was issued last year.

While Anwar did not explicitly name Shamsul Iskandar, he clarified the government’s strict rules against issuing such support letters.

Shamsul Iskandar said he resigned to protect the Malaysian government’s integrity. Photo: Handout

Anwar emphasised that government principles “do not permit such actions,” stating, “issuing any form of support is not allowed.” He noted that the only acceptable response to contracting letters is to write “please review”.

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