Establish independent body to audit politicians - Ismail Sabri

KUALA LUMPUR - Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob proposed establishing an independent body to audit and periodically review the attitude of public officials, especially politicians. He said this would ensure they comply with agreed-upon and generally accepted standards.

"This body should be composed of individuals of unblemished character and unquestionable qualifications, including the authority to take corrective action in cases where these standards are violated," he wrote in a column published in Utusan Malaysia today.

Ismail also acknowledged the role and efforts of government agencies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Malaysian Integrity Institute, which enforce and eradicate corruption and strengthen the value of integrity in the country, respectively.

He said these agencies need to be further empowered.

Ismail also pointed out that technology offers unprecedented opportunities to improve political integrity.

"From blockchain-based systems that ensure transparent financial transactions to AI-powered algorithms that can detect patterns of corruption, technology can be a powerful ally in our battle against corruption," he wrote.

However, he warned that technology also poses risks, such as the rise of deepfakes, the spread of false information and cyber attacks, which can undermine efforts to strengthen political integrity.

"Therefore, we should also be careful in reducing this risk," he advised.

Ismail added that raising awareness and forming a society with integrity has always been the government's priority.