Minister urges those involved in party polls to report money politics

Political parties holding their party polls soon were urged to cooperate with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to curb money politics.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Paul Low Seng Kuan has called on voters or party members involved in the several upcoming party elections to reject enticements of any form which could influence their choice.

"Monetisation of the election process undermines the very core of democracy, the base upon which this nation was founded and established at much cost and sacrifice to key stakeholders – the rakyat themselves," Low was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Should they come across any corruption during the party polls, they ought to demonstrate integrity and report to relevant authorities, including the MACC, Low said.

He pointed out that if money politics continued to be practised, particularly in party elections, then the country's fight against corruption would be severely hindered.

The minister went on to laud parties. which have expanded their voting process to allow a larger number of its members to elect their principal office bearers directly.

"This is a commendable effort and helps improve transparency in the election process and significantly reduce the potential influence of money politics," he said.

Party members would be more trusting and cooperative, Low noted, with political leaders who are elected through a legitimate process free of money politics.