LETTERS: Achieving a society that is nearly free from corruption is possible. We should believe that we can achieve that.
However, it not only the job of politicians, the police, anti-corruption commissions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or someone else to make it happen for us.
Look around us. The environment we live in is the product of our collective intelligence. All of us made this the way it is.
It should not matter whether there is a change in government or not. However, if we change the way we think and behave, we can collectively create a powerful difference.
Corruption is not just about bribe monies. Corruption, simply put, is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain, that's Transparency International's definition.
It starts small, grows, then destroys trust in everything we build. So, if we want to live in a society where large-scale corruption does not happen, we must try to make a difference on our own first. Do our part.
This means accepting a summons at a roadblock; redoing JPJ tests as many times as needed; giving no preferential treatment for a job offer because you know the applicant's parents; refusing that expensive dinner from your company's vendor and being honest with your warranty claims!
Also, do your job right at all times. Whatever your job or role is, do it with all you've got and add a little more honesty and integrity to it if you can.
After that, you get to expect to hear less about corruption in Malaysia. Otherwise, to be free from it is just wishful thinking. So, let's do this, together!
Jeeva Rajoo
Petaling Jaya, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times