Set up independent service commission instead

I REFER to Wong Chun Wai’s On the Beat column “Another government department, seriously?” ( Sunday Star, Oct 8).

I fully agree with the writer for questioning the need to set up another department of integrity and good governance (JITN) when we already have the MACC and Institute Integrity Malaysia (IIM), which are both doing good jobs.

In fact, MACC celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday, Oct 1 and the opening of its new building complex. As a member of the Advisory Board to the MACC, I am impressed by the relentless and fearless approach of this Commission in the fight against corruption.

What the MACC needs now are more personnel and a bigger budget so that it can be better equipped in the battle against corruption. Setting up another department will impinge on MACC’s inde- pendence and integrity.

The professionalism and independence of the MACC must not be compromised. There are already several oversight bodies in the MACC Act, including the Anti Corruption Advisory Board and the Parliamentary Oversight Committee which comprises MPs from both sides of the political divide.

The Government should prioritize the setting up of an independ- ent service commission for the MACC to ensure its independence. Setting up the proposed JITN is a retrogressive step. The Cabinet should therefore review its earlier decision to agree to its establishment.

TAN SRI MICHAEL YEOH CEO and director Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute