TI-M: Cabinet members should declare assets

> Move would ensure accountability in governance

PETALING JAYA: Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) has urged Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, his Cabinet members and heads of public institutions to declare their assets to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

Its president Datuk Akhbar Satar (pix) said the process was meant to avoid conflict of interest as well as to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.

In a statement, Akhbar said the MACC declaration would be followed by an online public declaration.

He said the practice should be extended to the spouses and close family members of the officials.

“Having such a practice will avoid any issues of false allegations and enhance public trust in political institutions and the civil service.”

Akhbar said assets acquired before and after the individual was appointed to the position must be declared, with a net value analysis to be done annually.

“MACC has account experts and investigators who can scrutinise and monitor the declared assets, as well as take action on those who fail to comply.”

The current practice requires Cabinet members to declare their assets only to the prime minister, while top office bearers in ministries and departments, including the attorneygeneral, chief justice and inspector-general of police declare their assets to the chief secretary to the government.

Akhbar urged MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Mohd Shukri Abdull to declare his assets to Parliament.