GEORGE TOWN – The prolonged economic slump due to the pandemic will be a factor in the rise of corruption cases, said Centre to Combat Cronyism and Corruption (C4) executive director Cynthia Gabriel.
While the authorities have to focus on maintaining public health, it cannot overlook the ways corruption is seeping into various levels of society, she told The Vibes.
It is no longer surprising to see reports of alleged corrupt practices involving teachers, doctors and directors of education institutions, although they are community leaders.
Penang has seen a series of cases – one allegedly involving college directors running money-laundering schemes to keep their institutions afloat – while police are investigating an orthopaedic doctor over alleged fraud involving insurance and Socso claims.
State police chief Datuk Sahabudin Abd Manan had urged the community to be on alert against commercial crimes, in which perpetrators are now able to steal millions, not just thousands of ringgit.
Gabriel said the authorities are facing a trust deficit with the people, which is compounded by the perception that they are unable to contain the pandemic well.
“When we see respect for our leaders and institutions eroding, the enticement to turn to crime heightens. People are on the brink due to job losses, with a pandemic to boot. If one is seeing a reduced income, he or she is considered fortunate.
“These circumstances, however, lead to more corruption. Some people are now resorting to shortcuts to survive, meaning they turn to crime rather than following the law.”
Gabriel slammed the current response from authorities, calling it muted.
“We need transparency, competency and accountability instead of draconian rule.
“We wonder how bad it can get in the country as we clamour for inspirational leadership.” – The Vibes, January 27, 2021
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