From selfies to scandal: why we must question our leaders

 

From Sashikala Devi Gopallan

The HRD Corp scandal has shaken Malaysia’s political landscape. The vague statement by human resources minister Steven Sim has left many questions unanswered.

The auditor-general’s 2024 report revealed shocking financial irregularities at HRD Corp:

•  RM205 million in unpaid levies from 21,058 employers;
•  RM51.7 million in suspicious training grants; and
•  A questionable RM120 million property deal.

These findings show a serious lack of good governance. Yet, many Malaysians still idolise CEOs and high-ranking officials, especially on LinkedIn.

In the case of HRD Corp, trainers and training providers often share photos with these “leaders” as if they were celebrities.

Should we admire these figures without question? As John Maxwell said, “People buy into the leader before they buy into the vision.”

Have we bought into Steven Sim and other leaders too quickly?

Sim’s recent statement acknowledges the problem but offers no clear solutions. He has asked the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate, but we need more than words.

We need specific plans to fix the deep-rooted issues at HRD Corp.

Warren Bennis once said,“The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born.”

This reminds us that true leaders are made through their actions and decisions. As citizens, it is our duty to question our leaders, no matter how charismatic they seem.

George Orwell warned, “The most effective way to destroy people is to deny and obliterate their own understanding of their history.”

If we don’t question our leaders, we risk losing control of our nation’s future. It is time to stop being starstruck and start being critical. Instead of seeking selfies with CEOs, we should ask them tough questions:

•  How are you ensuring transparency in your organisation?
•  What steps are you taking to prevent mismanagement of funds?

Sim now faces a crucial test. Will he make real changes and hold people accountable? Or will he, like many before him, offer empty words while nothing changes?

Again, George Orwell reminds us, “The most powerful form of lie is the omission.”

As we move forward, we must pay attention not just to what our leaders say, but also to what they don’t say.

Their silence reveals the true nature of their leadership, and the health of our democracy.

It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority. Isn’t it time for all Malaysians to take this responsibility seriously? - FMT

Sashikala Devi Gopallan is former corporate communications director of the Human Resources Development Fund (now HRD Corp).

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.