PUTRAJAYA (May 7): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched the National Anti-Corruption Strategies (NACS) 2024-2028 on Tuesday, which focuses on the effectiveness of corruption prevention efforts, in addition to improving governance and integrity in the administration of public services and government-related companies.
The NACS 2024-2028, replacing the National Anti-Corruption Plan (NACP) 2019-2023, is an important component of Malaysia’s reform agenda that outlines core strategies comprehensively, in efforts to combat corruption in Malaysia.
In his speech, Anwar said the issue of corruption should not be taken lightly and all parties, including the public, should play a role in addressing the issue.
“When we launch this (NACS) agenda, of course, the pillar is still the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), but it also involves the Inland Revenue Board (IRB), the Royal Malaysian Police, the Immigration Department, the Customs, and other agencies that need to ensure that this country will not repeat past mistakes, but rather be more determined to fight corruption.
“I have confidence in Azam (MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki) and the MACC, who have been given trust, mandate and support to fight corruption... regardless of one’s rank and status, so that the people get a clear message,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia cannot be saved, and the fate of the people cannot be safeguarded if those in power, civil servants and enforcement agencies feel entitled to exploit wealth and administer affairs according to the “law of the jungle”.
He said that although there are parties attempting to thwart MACC’s efforts to take action against those suspected of corruption and similar offences, it is the responsibility of all, including the younger generation, to save the country and safeguard the fate of the people.
“Just imagine, the issues of poverty eradication, dilapidated schools, hospitals and public facilities, as well as the fate of fishermen, rubber smallholders and paddy farmers…we can solve almost everything if we can save the country from the uncontrolled greed and abuse of power and position.
“To combat corruption, you need a very powerful, committed, dedicated and courageous force. To combat corruption, you need strong legislation and laws,” he said.
Anwar said he believes that the majority of the people are also restless and hate the issue of corruption in the country, but there is no denying that there are still a few who defend the abuse of power and corruption because the individuals involved are from influential and high-ranking groups.
Thus, Anwar said the presence of the two Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, as well as other ministers, at the launch of NACS on Tuesday is proof of their support for the MACC to implement the anti-corruption agenda.
“This fight (against corruption) can be ugly. That’s why it requires commitment, determination and sincerity to save the country and provide the best service to the people,” he said.
NACS encompasses five strategies involving education, public accountability, people’s voice, enforcement and incentives.
Anwar said that under the education strategy, children in schools must be trained to hate corruption and the abuse of power, while for the people at large, there must be an extensive education programme to enhance public awareness of the dangers of corruption.
“Under the public accountability strategy, this shall not be shouldered by the MACC or the Cabinet alone; this is our business. Do we want to save our country or let it be?” he asked.
As for the people’s voice strategy, the prime minister said it can shape and influence government policies and provide the support needed by implementing officers.
Under the enforcement strategy, Anwar said enforcement officers need to be bold, brave and efficient in performing their duties.
“Under the incentive strategy, I do not deny that there should be appropriate rewards and incentives for either the officers, civil servants or members of the public who cooperate in ensuring the success of efforts (to combat corruption),” he added.