SEREMBAN: Despite ongoing government efforts to tackle corruption, issues related to integrity, misconduct, governance, and leakages continue to pose significant challenges in the country, says
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
He said that recent arrests by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) had underscored the pervasive nature of corruption, affecting all levels of society, from politicians and government officials to grassroots communities.
"The arrests made by MACC show that no one is exempt — whether they are politicians, government officials, religious leaders, civil servants, or even judges. Corruption is widespread, and it involves people from all walks of life," he added.
Ayob Khan said that even at the grassroots level, some individuals demand money during elections and threaten not to vote unless they are paid.
"This is a form of corruption," he said, adding that society as a whole must share responsibility in tackling the issue.
"We shouldn't only blame those at the top. Everyone, regardless of their position, plays a part in combating corruption," he added.
Ayob Khan stressed that the fight against corruption should not only focus on high-profile cases but also address smaller-scale offences.
"Each of us has a role to play. We must not assume that change is impossible or that the structure is unchangeable. If we believe nothing can be done, then nothing will change," he said.
He also said that some leaders avoided taking action against corruption for fear of losing popularity, while others may even be complicit themselves.
"There are leaders who may not take bribes, but they lack the courage to act. In my view, they cannot be true leaders because they lack the strength to take a stand," he said.
Regarding the police force, Ayob Khan urged officers to take proactive measures against corruption within their ranks.
"The police should act first and detect corrupt officers before agencies like MACC get involved. If we wait for others to take action, it signals a lack of proactivity on our part."
He cited an example of a case involving an assistant superintendent, where MACC made the arrest instead of the police.
"Where does that leave us?" he said.
Ayob Khan's remarks came after his lecture at the state government's Integrity Day celebration in Negri Sembilan, which was attended by about 250 state administrative staff, including Negri Sembilan Deputy State Secretary (Management) Datuk Rozitta Sulaiman.