PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has joined forces with environmental activists and academics to form a network to tackle corruption in environmental management.
“All the parties involved have agreed to form a closer strategic network to share information and strengthen law enforcement against corruption and abuse of power related to environmental issues nationwide,” the MACC said in a statement.
The partnership aims to raise awareness on the impact of corruption on the environment.
Among the environmental NGOs are Pelindung Khazanah Alam Malaysia, Sabahat Alam Malaysia and Persatuan Aktivis Sahabat Alam and the academic institutions included Rimba Research, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Chemical Engineering Department, and Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia Science and Environment Centre.
The partnership would be known as the Environmental Protection and Anti-Corruption Caucus.
“This is to ensure more serious attention is given to violation of the environment and ensure immediate action is taken by the MACC against those involved in corruption and abuse of power involving the environment,” it said.
It said an integrated and sustainable approach is essential to eradicate illegal logging, pollution of rivers and ecosystems, illegal land clearing to prevent tragedies such as floods and soil erosion.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
