SHAH ALAM – The Malaysian Cross-Party Parliamentary Group of Malaysia – Integrity, Governance and Anti-Corruption (KRPPM-IGAR) has expressed concerns about the delays and progress regarding institutional reform implementation, including four proposed improvements to the legal system.
Its chairman Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh said that specific action plan and clear strategies were needed to realise at least the first phase of the involved reforms.
"To strengthen these efforts, we propose that the Legal Affairs Division also be given the opportunity to provide updates on the status of legal reforms related to integrity, governance and anti-corruption presented by this group.
"We also welcome the involvement of the Minister or Deputy Minister in future presentations, and our KRPPM-IGAR colleagues are ready to commit with research inputs, views and constructive feedback," he said at a press conference in Parliament on Monday.
He further explained that KRPPM had also suggested that the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act be made a key agenda in the legislative process to enhance comprehensive transformation concerning other laws related to integrity, governance and anti-corruption.
Syed Ibrahim said the act was crucial for building a culture of accountability, empowering the people and ensuring informed participation in the nation's democratic processes.
"KRPPM also does not see a clear timeline regarding amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act and the Ombudsman, which were previously expected to be presented this year.
"We hope for an urgency in improvements that will have a significant impact on preventing leakage and corruption in Malaysia," he said.
Syed Ibrahim, who is also the Ledang Member of Parliament, mentioned that the group saw additional structural changes as essential to achieving broader governance objectives.
For example, he suggested that increased oversight of mega projects should be placed under the Parliamentary Special Select Committee to ensure optimal resource allocation.
"In ensuring a specific and separate focus on each area for the effectiveness and sustainability of their respective sectors, the separation of management for Sovereign Wealth Funds and Pension Funds must be implemented.
"Even though there are guidelines through governance circulars mentioned, reforming government-related investment companies is important for enhancing the accountability of government-managed assets.
"Therefore, we call on all stakeholders to join us in realising these reforms in a spirit of shared commitment towards a better Malaysia," he urged.