SHAH ALAM: Surveys by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) in 2003 and 2021 saw a significant decrease in the likelihood of university students being corrupt, says Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
“(In 2003) university students were asked if they would commit corruption if they had the power and opportunity, to which 30.5% replied yes.
“The same question was asked again in 2021 and only 2.3% replied yes.
“Perhaps it is because many efforts have been carried out by various parties in the fight against corruption in Malaysia,” he said on Monday (May 20) after receiving the Malaysia Book of Records certificate for “The Most Kindergartener Participants in an Integrity Awareness Campaign”, after witnessing 1,066 students colouring an integrity-themed comic at Dewan Raja Muda Musa here.
Amirudin said integrity matters were gaining attention and importance, as seen in the 2018 general election result, which saw Malaysians vote based on the effect of a high-profile case involving the integrity of the leadership (at the time).
“Integrity is an important factor in getting the people’s support,” he said.
Separately, when asked about the progress of the property revaluation exercise in several municipalities in Selangor, Amirudin said it was being done fairly.
“Kajang (municipality) was the first to complete the exercise.
“We will reevaluate the property based on its present surroundings.
“It will be done fairly, taking into account the increase in maintenance and waste collection costs.
“The people can object and their objections will be heard.
“Sustainability of state and local authorities must also be considered. The assessment taxes have not been increased in many years,” he said.
Amirudin said the final decision on the implementation would be made by the state when the time was right.
