Corruption, food security, brain drain worsening but politicians more into elections, says think tank

SHAH ALAM - Political parties in this country need to be in an 'ego-free zone' and negotiate what is best for the country.

Emir Research President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk Rais Hussin Mohamed Ariff said Malaysia needs a major political change to reverse the worsening trend.

"We need to elect a government that can really guide and focus on the needs of the people. Sometimes people talk about religion, race and country but it is actually for me, my family and my cronies. That is the understanding.

"I really hope that all parties are in the 'ego-free zone' and negotiate for the best for the country," he said during a talk show with National Journalists Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar at Karangkraf Group Building here.

Meanwhile, Rais said Malaysia is facing difficult times, both in terms of economy, corruption and the loss of many highly skilled citizens as they move abroad.

He added the country's corruption index is worsening. As for food security, Malaysia is not included in the Global Food Security Index (GFSI).

"If we look at the issue of 'brain drain' or scholars and skilled people, many have left Malaysia and migrated abroad.

"In a conservative figure, a total of 500,000 people migrated but the figure given by the World Bank is 1.27 million people. If you look at these numbers, we are losing a considerable amount of human capital in developing the country.

"Not to mention the political atmosphere is quite unstable, every day we hear that there will be an election. In fact, the main focus today is to restore the country's economy which is getting worse," he explained.