KUALA LUMPUR: Enhancing integrity and transparency, particularly for procurement projects, is crucial in light of recent controversies plaguing the Defence Ministry, analysts say.
Defence analyst Zaki Salleh said the ministry, especially the Armed Forces, must be serious in eradicating corruption and other forms of wrongdoing.
“Audit reports, for instance, should serve as a key benchmark in curbing corruption and abuse of power.
“When wrongdoing is identified, firm action must be taken swiftly,” he said, adding that such action has been lacking in the past.
He said if misconduct is proven, it should be made known to serve as a lesson and a deterrent to others involved in unethical practices.
“While there have been cases of corruption and abuse of power involving senior officers and personnel being brought before the courts, these are frequently perceived as isolated incidents rather than symptoms of a deeper, systemic problem.
Zaki said a thorough clean-up of the system and genuine reform is needed.
“The ministry should be more transparent especially when procuring defence assets,” he added.
Universiti Utara Malaysia security and geopolitical analyst Assoc Prof Dr Mohamed Faisol Keling called for Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers to be stationed at the ministry and headquarters of the Armed Forces.
This, he said, would ensure every aspect of the ministry’s management is done strictly by the book.
The MACC officers, however, should be there on a rotational basis to prevent them from forming close relationships with ministry and military personnel.
He also called for the minister and secretary-general to be present for meetings of new and old procurement projects.
“They should be a permanent entity in such meetings to boost accountability,” he said, adding that military branch commanders should not be involved in making decisions in purchases and development.
“The commanders should only make recommendations to the ministry,” he added.
