Idris Haron: MACC should cast a wider net

- Bernama

MALACCA: All high-ranking civil servants who take part in extreme sports overseas should come under the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) radar, says Datuk Seri Idris Haron (pic).

"There are many jet-setting civil servants involved in extreme sports that are considered trendy and costly," said the Malacca Chief Minister.

"Sports like ice skiing, skydiving, scuba diving and motocross are exclusive, and MACC should place civil servants participating in such activities under their radar," he said after chairing the weekly state Exco meeting at Seri Negeri here on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, MACC's deputy chief commissioner Datuk Azam Baki said MACC is observing those flying abroad to play golf and have liaisons with girlfriends and mistresses.

Idris said golfing abroad was not the only yardstick that the MACC could use to suspect key government officials of graft practices.

He said the state government supported the move by MACC keeping vigil on those flying abroad to play golf and having mistresses.

Idris said there were cases of civil servants paying exorbitant amounts of money to take part in motocross events abroad.

"Some these suspected corrupted individuals were not only playing golf but also involved in luxurious sports," he said.

Idris said senior Malacca state officials were barred from playing golf during office hours even if they were on leave.

"The ruling on golfing has been in place since 2013, and those on leave should only be seen on the golf course after 5pm.

"We have previously taken disciplinary action against those who failed to abide by the ruling," he added.