By former Petagas assemblyman Datuk James Ligunjang
KOTA KINABALU: Corruption remains a critical challenge in Malaysia, undermining public trust and damaging the nation’s global reputation. Despite aspirations to improve governance, Malaysia ranks 57th on the world corruption index, in stark contrast to neighbouring Singapore, which ranks 5th.
The recent case of Najib Razak, whose sentence was significantly reduced despite the severity of his crimes, has raised concerns about the uneven application of justice and the potential for impunity among the elite.
The plundering of national wealth must not be met with leniency. The Malaysian Constitution promises equality before the law; however, recent developments suggest a disparity that could erode public confidence in the justice system.
Najib Razak’s premature appeal to the Pardons Board, after serving only a fraction of his sentence while still facing other charges related to the embezzlement of the nation’s wealth fund, sets a concerning precedent. This could potentially open the door for similar appeals by other prisoners convicted of lesser offences.
As François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International, emphasises, corruption thrives when justice systems fail to hold offenders accountable. It is imperative for Malaysia to invest in the independence and strength of its institutions.
This includes ensuring that the justice system remains free from political interference and that laws are applied consistently, regardless of an individual’s societal status.
It is time for Malaysia to take decisive action to uphold justice and end the impunity associated with corruption. By committing to transparency and accountability, Malaysia can enhance its governance, reaffirm the rule of law, and set a course toward a more equitable and prosperous future for all its citizens.
When justice is bought or politically interfered with, it is the people that will suffer.
