Crime prevention group lauds asset declaration move
KUALA LUMPUR: The move to require government officials to declare their assets is in line with Pakatan Harapan’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and credible administration.
Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) senior vice-chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the newly-elected government had continuously emphasised its promise to uphold integrity and fight corruption.
He said the announcement by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was something that MCPF had expected, but nevertheless, it was a good development and welcomed.
Lee said the fact that asset declarations would begin at the level of ministers, deputy ministers and political secretaries was vital as it sent a clear message that no one was excluded in the fight against corruption.
“Declaring their assets to the prime minister and relevant agencies shows that they are taking the right step.
“The ministers are leaders of the countr y ’s administration and they need to set the right example,” said Lee.
He said many people tend to forget that corruption was a crime, but with this, authorities as well as the public, would be able to keep those in power in check.
Yesterday, Dr Mahathir said ministers, deputy ministers, political secretaries and other government officials would be required to declare their assets as part of measures to ensure transparency in the administration.
Speaking after chairing a Cabinet Committee Meeting on Government Management Integrity at his office in Putrajaya, Dr Mahathir said the prime minister could not conceal corruption committed by officers or administrators.
He said the meeting also decided that government officials must not hold more than five positions in government-linked companies (GLCs).
He said although he felt that one position should suffice, it was sometimes unavoidable for some officials to hold more.
He said the government found that some officials held up to 68 positions in GLCs.
He said government administrators and high-ranking officers were also not allowed to receive gifts, adding that action would be taken against both the giver and receiver.