MALAYSIA’S inability to climb from the 57th spot on Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) is nothing short of disappointing.
With a stagnant score of 50, it’s clear that despite various government reforms, progress has hit a frustrating standstill.
High-profile discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA) cases are notably casting a long shadow over the nation’s efforts to combat corruption, leaving many Malaysians questioning the integrity of their justice system.
In a media briefing yesterday, Transparency International (TI) Malaysia president Dr Muhammad Mohan, points out that while the government has taken steps towards institutional and legal reforms, delays in implementation and public concern over DNAA cases have hindered Malaysia’s progress. “I am not challenging the law, but this is the perception and how the public sees it,” Dr Muhammad told reporters.
His remarks ring true for many Malaysians who feel that these DNAA cases have contributed to the country’s stagnant ranking.
Public perception took another hit when police summoned several participants of the recent anti-corruption rally for questioning, including university students and activists.
The move, seen as an attempt to intimidate those advocating for transparency, sparked backlash and raised concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic freedoms.
Many questioned why those speaking out against corruption were being investigated while high-profile cases continued to see little progress.
The rally last month highlighted cases involving high-profile figures, such as former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, which have not only dominated headlines but have also raised serious public concerns, repeatedly.
The decision to grant a DNAA in these cases, despite following due process, has undoubtedly left a foul taste in the mouths of Malaysians who are eager to see accountability and justice.
Adding to the frustration is the slow pace of crucial reforms. Amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act and the long-awaited Freedom of Information Act have faced delays, further contributing to the country’s stagnant CPI ranking.
As Dr Muhammad aptly put it, “Amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act are one of the lowest hanging fruits. I don’t know where the stumbling block is.”
The government’s assurances that these amendments will be tabled soon bring a glimmer of hope, but repeated delays risk diminishing public confidence even further.
Despite the bleak outlook, there is still a sliver of optimism. The establishment of the CPI Special Task Force, chaired by the Chief Secretary to the Government, signifies a concerted effort to address the issues highlighted by the CPI findings.
National Governance Planning Division senior director Datuk Idris Zaharudin noted that the task force will analyse these findings and take necessary actions.
The road to breaking Malaysia’s current stagnation is undeniably challenging, but with stronger commitments and tangible progress, there is hope that the nation can rebuild public trust and improve its standing on the CPI.
It’s high time for Malaysia to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate real, impactful actions against corruption. Malaysians deserve nothing less. – February 12, 2025
A. Azim Idris is a news editor at Scoop.