KUALA LUMPUR: Recent corruption scandals involving public officials and institutions have severely shaken public confidence in the integrity and accountability of those entrusted with public service, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
Lee, who is a member of the Malaysian Integrity Institute, said corruption in any form undermines fairness, justice and good governance, while eroding the foundation of public trust that is vital for a functioning democracy, economic growth and social cohesion.
"Scandals have not only tarnished the reputation of the individuals involved, but have also cast a shadow over public institutions, leading to frustration and cynicism among Malaysians who increasingly perceive corruption as systemic.
“Ordinary citizens expect transparency, honesty and ethical conduct from their leaders. Trust, once lost, is difficult to rebuild, but it is not irreparable,” he said when contacted on Tuesday (Jan 27).
He stressed that public confidence must be restored through concrete actions rather than rhetoric.
Lee also called for a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach to address the root causes of corruption, beginning with stronger legal and institutional frameworks.
He urged the empowerment and protection of the independence of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to enable it to investigate and prosecute cases without fear or favour, as well as a review of laws governing conflicts of interest, public procurement, asset declaration and political financing to close existing loopholes.
On transparency and accountability, Lee said open data standards should be implemented for government contracts, budgets and expenditure to allow public scrutiny, while public officials should be required to regularly declare their assets and liabilities, backed by meaningful verification and penalties for non-compliance.
"It is also important to promote ethical leadership within the public service through a strong code of ethics, continuous training and firm accountability mechanisms.
"Leaders must set an example and send a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated," he added.
Lee further called for stronger whistleblower protections to encourage the reporting of wrongdoing without fear of retaliation, and urged civil society, the media and the private sector to play a more active role in monitoring and exposing corrupt practices.
“All allegations of corruption must be investigated swiftly and fairly, and when wrongdoing is proven, those responsible must be held accountable regardless of their position or influence,” he said.
Rebuilding public trust, Lee added, requires sincerity, consistency and urgency, as well as transparent communication with the public throughout the investigative process.
“Trust is restored not by promises, but by tangible actions that demonstrate a genuine commitment to integrity,” he said, calling on all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law, champion ethical leadership and ensure that public office remains a place of service rather than privilege.
