Malaysia incurred RM277b losses in five years due to corruption - Azam

The MACC revealed that the nation incurred losses totalling RM277 billion as a result of corruption over the past five years.

Its chief commissioner Azam Baki said the losses were calculated based on the cumulative estimate of the gross domestic product from 2018 until last year.

“This substantial amount could have been utilised to help the public in various ways, particularly in executing social projects such as hospital and school repairs.

“Regrettably, these funds have been depleted due to corrupt practices,” he said in his speech at the launch of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (Nacs) 2024-2028 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre today.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim officiated the ceremony. Also in attendance were Deputy Prime Ministers Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Fadillah Yusof, as well as the Chief Secretary to the Government Mohd Zuki Ali.

Azam said to ensure that the anti-corruption strategy has a significant impact, the drafting of the Nacs was carried out using various approaches and methodologies to identify areas in the country that are vulnerable to corruption risks.

He said the Nacs outlines a crucial plan that focuses on enhancing integrity, transparency and accountability across various sectors in Malaysia, including politics, public administration, government procurement, law enforcement, legal and judicial institutions, the private sector and the general public.

“It comprises five main strategies and 60 sub-strategies that will be implemented over five years, starting from this year until 2028.

“We hope Nacs will serve as a catalyst to strengthen good governance in the country, aiming to prevent and combat corruption. This is to ensure that Malaysia’s development agenda towards an integrated and corruption-free nation can be realised,” he said.

- Bernama