CORPORATE sponsors who fund political parties and later secure government contracts when the parties come to power will be taken into account in the proposed Political Financing Bill, says Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) M. Kulasegaran.
He acknowledged that this issue was among the key reasons for drafting the Bill, which he added would also address the misconception that contributions guarantee government projects.
“We are looking at similar laws in other countries that have been successful over the past few decades. I believe this matter will be taken into account and follow-up action will be taken,” he said during Question Time.
Kulasegaran was responding to a supplementary question by Suhaizan Kaiat (PH-Pulai) on whether this aspect would be included in the Bill.
Suhaizan highlighted the risk of corruption, noting that companies that contribute to political parties might win government tenders, while those that do not would be overlooked.
He also asked if political parties would be audited when they receive funds.
Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Ramli Mohd Nor, who presided over the session, supported Suhaizan’s concerns, saying, “What Pulai has raised is very relevant. Should look into it.”
Kulasegaran added that the Legal Affairs Division has conducted 20 engagement sessions, including with political parties, to gather feedback for the Bill.
Key points raised included the possibility of public funding for political parties, transparency in declaring financial reports, donation limits and categories of permitted donors.
A perception study by the International Islamic University Malaysia is ongoing and expected to conclude by Feb 28. He said the findings would be used to establish policy parameters of the Bill.
