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PETALING JAYA: A total of 12 local governments (PBT) have had their ratings downgraded under the Local Authority Star Rating System (SPB-PBT), says Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
He said this is because his ministry has included new anti-corruption criteria in the SPB-PBT to tackle corruption at town council and district levels.
“This is the first time in history that we have included anti-corruption elements in the local council star rating system.
“With the new assessment system, I would like to announce that 12 PBTs have been downgraded,” Nga told reporters after the first day of the 2024 Local Government Convention in Petaling Jaya on Saturday (Oct 26).
Nga said counselling will be provided to the 12 PBTs whose ratings have been lowered.
According to Nga, the new anti-graft element in the SPB-PBT system aligns with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy approved by the Cabinet.
“PBTs will serve as role models so that we are friendly to residents and investors,” said Nga.
Nga added that all states, except Kelantan, Kedah, and Perlis, have established integrity units, following a circular recently issued by Putrajaya.
“For states without integrity units in their PBTs, I hope that after this convention, we will take the initiative to set them up.
“I’m not asking PBTs to set up integrity units with 100 people. Even having one or two officers is enough. In a globalised era, all of us, including myself, should be multitasking,” added Nga.
However, Nga said there is no deadline for PBTs to establish integrity units.
“This is in line with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and we will work with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC),” said Nga.
Meanwhile, Nga also said his ministry aims to expedite licence approvals for low-risk businesses, such as grocery stalls or food courts, to 24 hours.
“Apply in the morning and get it approved by the evening. That is part of our digital transformation plan. For high-risk businesses such as veterinarians and nightclubs, we aim to approve licences in 14 days,” added Nga.
