INSPECTOR-GENERAL of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador at a recent media conference announced the arrest of 34 people linked to a Macau Scam syndicate, among them officers of various enforcement agencies.
Likewise, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in recent weeks reported the arrest of 68 people believed to be gang members, some of whom are said to hold federal or state titles.
Honorifics are awarded by the federal and state governments to deserving individuals based on an established set of rules and criteria, and are normally bestowed at the discretion of state rulers, on the occasion of their birthday.
Recipients are deemed to have done exemplary service to the state, and are of reputable and untarnished character. As such, they are expected to uphold themselves with honour and dignity, and not conduct themselves in a disreputable fashion.
Over the last several years, there has been a spike in the number of criminal cases involving recipients of federal and state titles. These cases include corruption, money laundering, gangsterism, extortion, fights and a host of other offences. Arrests were made by either police or MACC.
When prosecuted, they are not only disgraced, but the titles they hold are degraded and dishonoured. Their undesirable activities demean and dishonour the state, and the ruler who bestowed on them the awards.
To restore and preserve the sanctity, honour and integrity of such awards, Patriot suggests that all federal and state title recipients convicted of criminal activities have their awards revoked and degazetted.
A public image of a Tan Sri, Datuk Seri or Datuk attired in the infamous orange MACC lock-up garb, handcuffed and arraigned in court to face criminal charges, is disgusting. Of late, such sights have been a regular feature in the media.
What is even more disgusting is that the arraigned individual does not appear to be remorseful; rather, he leaves the courthouse with a broad smile. How does this look like to our younger generation, who look up to titled individuals with high regard?
Patriot respects the right of states and rulers to bestow titles on whomever they wish. But, one has to consider which is more important to preserve: the sanctity and integrity of these titles, or the disgraced recipient? – The Vibes, April 6, 2021
Brig Gen (Rtd) Datuk Mohamed Arshad Raji is president of the National Patriots’ Association (Patriot)
