PUTRAJAYA, May 7 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today launched the National Anti-Corruption Strategies (NACS) 2024-2028, which focuses on the effectiveness of corruption prevention efforts and improving governance and integrity in the public service administration and government-related companies.
The NACS 2024-2028, replacing the National Anti-Corruption Plan 2019-2023, is an important component of Malaysia’s reform agenda that outlines core strategies comprehensively in efforts to combat corruption in Malaysia.
The NACS encompasses five strategies including education, public accountability, the people’s voice, enforcement and incentives.
Anwar said under the education strategy, children in schools must be trained to hate corruption and abuse of power, while for the people, there must be an extensive education programme to enhance public awareness about the dangers of corruption.
In his speech, Anwar said 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, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Immigration Department, the Customs Department, and other agencies that need to ensure this country will not repeat past mistakes, but instead be more determined to fight corruption.
“I have confidence in Azam (MACC chief commissioner) and the MACC, who have been given the trust, mandate and support to fight corruption… regardless of one’s rank and status, so 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 by the laws of the jungle.
He said although there are parties attempting to thwart MACC’s efforts to act against those suspected of corruption, 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 padi 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 powerful, committed, dedicated, and courageous force. To combat corruption, you need strong legislation,” he said.
Anwar said he believes the people are restless and hate the issue of corruption in the country, but there is no denying there are still a few who defend the abuse of power because those involved are from influential, high-ranking groups.
“Under the public accountability strategy, this shall not be shouldered by 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, Anwar said it could shape and influence government policies and provide the support needed by implementing officers.
Under the enforcement strategy, Anwar said officers need to be bold, brave and efficient in performing their duties.
“Under the incentive strategy, I do not deny 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 the efforts (to combat corruption),” he said.
— Bernama
