Timely move: Azam (seated) inspecting the newly launched MACC office in Keningau, as others look on.
KOTA KINABALU: Corruption among civil servants remains a serious concern, with over 40% of arrests this year involving public officers, says Tan Sri Azam Baki.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner said that of the 1,252 individuals who were nabbed between January and October, 547 or 43.7% were civil servants.
Among them, nine held top management positions, 181 were in management or professional roles and 357 were operational and support staff.
Azam highlighted national statistics showing that out of 5,732 tips received by the agency, 3,173 (55%) involved civil servants.
“Having been on the job for a long time, I can say this rate is still too high. This is an issue that requires urgent, effective action.
“Civil servants are entrusted to manage public funds. We must ensure that these funds are not misappropriated,” he told reporters after opening the MACC office in Keningau, about 100km from here.
According to MACC records, of the 410 cases brought to court this year, 185 involved civil servants, with 84 convictions recorded to date.
The commission further disclosed that 544 investigation papers have been opened against civil servants, with allegations of receiving bribes at the top of the list with 275 papers.
This is followed by probes into false claims (129), abuse of power (74), Anti-Money Laundering Act offences (17) and giving bribes (six), among others.
“Ideally, corruption among public servants should be way below 40%. The current rate is above this threshold, which is concerning,” said Azam.
He added that the recent decision to raise the civil servant salary should help boost morale and reinforce their dedication to public service.
“MACC officers are also held to these standards, and we strive to resolve as many confidential cases as possible,” he added.
He said the opening of the agency’s new office in Keningau, a district covering 29% of Sabah’s land area was a timely move to address growing corruption issues.
“We anticipate a rise in reports with this new setup,” he said urging the public to come forward with their concerns, noting increased public awareness of corruption-related issues.
