MACC MUST BALANCE PUNITIVE, PREVENTIVE ACTIONS TO COMBAT GRAFT - MCW

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must maintain a balance between firm punitive actions and preventive approaches to ensure long-term effectiveness in the country’s fight against corruption, says Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW) founder and second vice-president Prof Datuk GP Doraisamy.

He said that while punitive measures through law enforcement and prosecution were the MACC’s primary functions, non-punitive (preventive) aspects were critical to instilling awareness and transforming societal integrity.

He added that punitive action alone was insufficient to eradicate corruption if it was not balanced with educational elements that could change an individual’s mindset and conscience.

"We need a balance. Punitive measures are a method to bring offenders to justice, but will that alone completely close the door on corruption? I think not.

"Therefore, a non-punitive approach through education and awareness is vital to building intellectual maturity among the people so they truly understand the adverse effects of corruption," he said as a guest on the Ruang Bicara programme broadcast live on Bernama TV tonight.

Commenting on allegations that recent MACC actions were selective or politically motivated, Doraisamy said the anti-graft body acts professionally and in accordance with international standards.

He said any firm action taken against an individual or party would inevitably trigger various reactions, however, the public should view these from a broader perspective rather than a myopic one.

"MACC is doing its job to combat corruption. When action is taken, naturally, some parties will feel affected, leading to dissatisfaction. This is where the people's maturity in thinking is important, to evaluate an issue without being influenced by emotions or provocations from certain parties with their own agendas," he said.

Doraisamy also urged politicians in the country to equip themselves with knowledge of corruption prevention and to refrain from exploiting enforcement-related issues merely for popularity.

He further added that MCW’s commitment was to continue serving as the eyes and ears for the MACC by channelling information and complaints regarding corruption at the grassroots level.

"We at MCW have cooperated closely with the MACC for a long time. Although we do not have executive powers, we play a role in helping to convey information from the community to the authorities as a collective effort to rid the country of this menace," he said.

-- BERNAMA