JOHOR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has warned that efforts to combat corruption must be carried out without compromise across all departments and agencies under the Johor government.
His Majesty, who is also the Sultan of Johor, stressed that integrity and administrative transparency are fundamental to safeguarding the state’s well- being and sustained prosperity.
According to a post on the Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar Facebook page, the message was conveyed to Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and State Secretary Datuk Mohammed Ridha Abd Kadir, who were granted an audience by His Majesty at Istana Pasir Pelangi yesterday, reported Bernama.
Also in attendance were Pasir Gudang City Council Mayor Datin Paduka Hazlina Jalil and Johor Land and Mines director Mohammed Shakib Ali.
During the nearly two-hour meeting, His Majesty also received a briefing from Onn Hafiz on current developments and the rapid progress achieved in Johor.
On Tuesday, His Majesty issued a stern warning that more individuals are now on his “radar” as part of an uncompromising mission to combat corruption across all government departments and agencies.
Describing graft as a betrayal of public trust, the King said such acts will not be tolerated in the country’s administration under any circumstances.
“Do not think the fight against corruption is only focused on a handful of departments or those who give and receive bribes.
“Even those in the police force, the Immigration Department, the Customs Department and many others should be cautious.
“The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is not spared either,” His Majesty said.
“No matter what rank you hold, as well as agents who act as ‘middlemen’ and suppliers of various equipment, clothing and medical supplies, you too are within the ‘radar’.
“Do not assume that I am unaware of what is taking place, as I have my own sources of intelligence.”
The King said anti-corruption efforts must go beyond rhetoric or cosmetic actions, as no one is above the law.
His Majesty also said immediate transfers should be carried out if officers fail to uphold integrity and carry out their duties honestly.
“If there are those who are unable to fulfil their responsibilities with integrity, give the opportunity to those who are more deserving and clean to take over,” Sultan Ibrahim said.
Last month, Sultan Ibrahim, in the royal address at the opening of the First Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament, called for corruption to be fought on a large scale, with no one shielded from investigation and legal action.
His Majesty had said efforts to eradicate corruption must not focus solely on those who receive bribes but also those who offer bribes as well as agents or any parties acting in collusion.
