KUANTAN: Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay has voiced concern over the normalisation of corruption, with some even regarding it as "charity."
"Bribery (to some) is considered charity, part of a normal culture," he said in a recent talk in conjunction with the Kuantan City Council's Integrity Day celebration.
"Those who go against corruption are seen as (being) strange. Are these people for real?
"Someone issues a 'fatwa' claiming corruption is charity, and (people) can accept it."
Ayob, however, did not specify who he was referring to.
Previously, a political party leader drew criticism for defending cash handouts during election campaigning, saying it was charity to voters.
Ayob said some pray, pay zakat, and perform the haj every year yet still take bribes without fear.
He said such people would take bribes and then seek forgiveness when they go to the Holy Land.
"We disrespect God's law, and that has become a culture."
Ayob added that dishonest people should step away from leadership positions to make way for others.
"Regardless of whether they are Muslims or non-Muslims, 'amanah' (trust) is important.
"Strength is (now) determined based on how much money a person has and no longer on honesty. That is what we have today," he said.