KUALA LUMPUR: Improving Malaysia's Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score requires a multifaceted approach involving systemic reforms, public engagement and enhanced transparency measures, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
Lee, a member of the Malaysia Integrity Institute, noted that Transparency International recently released their CPI scores for 2024, with Malaysia maintaining its 57th global position for the second consecutive year, scoring 50 points.
"The report highlighted that while Malaysia has made some progress, there is still a long way to go to reach the top 25 by 2033," he said when contacted on Thursday (April 10).
Strengthening the nation's legal frameworks governing corruption is important, he lamented.
"We should have stricter penalties for corrupt activities and update laws to close loopholes.
"We must also enact robust legislation to protect whistleblowers to encourage reporting of corrupt practices without fear of retribution.
"It is imperative that there must be transparency and full disclosure of government contracts and procurement processes to reduce opportunities for enrichment and leakages," he added.
The government must also be seen to be taking appropriate action in cases of wastage and unaccountability among some departments as highlighted year after year by the Auditor General, Lee said.
"As long as nothing is done, such colossal waste will continue, and our CPI score will not improve.
"There is a perception that political donations and campaign financing sometimes result in money politics. This must be closely watched and regulated," he cautioned.
Lee said another aspect that must be looked into is the implementation of performance evaluations and accountability measures for public servants, making them answerable for their actions.
"The public must also be educated on the impacts of corruption and the importance of transparency and accountability.
"We could take a lesson or two from international organisations for best practices and benchmarks," he said.
Cooperation with other countries to combat transnational corruption, including drug trafficking and money laundering, must also be strengthened, he said.
"We should also apply more artificial intelligence (AI) processes to identify patterns of corruption and areas prone to corrupt practices," he added.
