KUALA LUMPUR – The government is currently undergoing reformation and is adamant to weed out corruption at all levels, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said.
In this regard, he said integrity and good governance in the administration of the country will be the government’s main pillars.
This is especially crucial as only by the practice of integrity and accountability can the rakyat’s prosperity and well-being be guaranteed, he added.
“Today, we are in the reformation and renewal phase. The government will not compromise to any forms of corruption and misappropriation,” he said at the launch of the inaugural Integrity, Governance and Anti-Corruption Award (AIGA).
The award, which recognises agencies and companies that commit to a culture of integrity, good governance and anti-corruption, is organised by the Malaysian Institute of Integrity (IIM).
The establishment of the award follows a similar pilot project previously implemented at the Pahang state level in 2020.
Fadillah said the organisation of AIGA is especially timely considering the unity government is currently focusing on efforts to improve integrity and good governance while at the same time addressing corruption at all levels.
He stressed the importance for every single individual from all segments of the community to similarly ensure that every action is in line with this culture.
“This is because the country will not be able to move forward if the public and private sectors, as well as the general public, do not work hand-in-hand to improve integrity and vehemently reject corruption.
“Total rejection of graft can only be achieved if all parties play a role in ensuring there is no room to allow (for) it.”
On the part of the government, Fadillah said Putrajaya is committed to ensuring integrity and good governance in its frameworks to uplift the public, and that it is crucial for both values to be implemented hand-in-hand.
In the same regard, he said the private sector must also provide its commitment to apply similar values in its operations through the strengthening of internal procedures and systems as well as the implementation of anti-corruption efforts.
“The combination of integrity and good governance can improve the productivity of a particular company and drive the economy.
“To this extent, foreign and domestic companies will be more confident in investing in our country, which will also offer new job opportunities for the rakyat,” he said.
Fadillah also said the value of integrity in daily life should not be limited merely to directly combating corruption, but should also consist of an excellent work culture.
This includes punctuality for work, fulfilling all promises, and maintaining the confidentiality of information.
“The country needs a society and workforce who are professional, honest, trustworthy, and efficient in helping to implement the government’s policies.”
Separately, the deputy prime minister said the current government is also committed to uplifting the functions and direction of the IIM, in line with a previous decision made by the cabinet special committee on anti-corruption. – The Vibes, January 18, 2023
