Don't make ordinary people pay the price of high-level corruption

M Santhananaban

It has been a hectic time in recent weeks, with remand orders and arrests of high-level government and corporate personalities.

On Monday, another former cabinet minister is expected to be charged with corruption-related offences.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) needs the full support and understanding of the public to carry out its duties. It has to demonstrate dedication and determination in pursuing leads where there is strong evidence or suspicion of abuse of office, corruption and the solicitation of bribes

Combating corruption is a huge task. It needs the government’s leadership, but also the support of the public, the media, and political and NGO activists.

It is a trifle troubling that the mainstream media are not coming out with regular editorials and opinion pieces condemning corruption. They seem rather silent about the perils of corruption. That, at least, is my impression.

Court verdicts on high-profile corruption cases, involving vast sums of public funds, deserve the highest respect. This is especially true once a case has gone through various levels of appeal.

Ordinary people should not have to repay debts run up by corrupt, incompetent and irresponsible leaders.

Those convicted leaders must serve their full prison terms and pay the fines imposed. They should also admit guilt, show remorse and apologise publicly.

Dato’ M Santhananaban is a former ambassador with over 45 years of public sector experience.