By Daniel John Jambun, Presiden Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo)
KOTA KINABALU: Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo) has taken note of the recent public debate surrounding corruption allegations involving political leaders in Sabah, as well as the calls by various organisations for investigations to be reopened or pursued.
BoPiMaFo does not comment on the guilt or innocence of any individual. That is a matter for the independent investigative authorities and, ultimately, the courts.
However, the Foundation believes that the present debate highlights a much larger issue confronting Sabah.
Corruption and abuse of power are not merely criminal justice concerns. They are among the greatest obstacles to Sabah’s economic development, good governance and the well-being of its people.
For decades, Sabah has remained one of the poorest States in Malaysia despite being richly endowed with oil and gas, forests, fisheries, agricultural resources and enormous tourism potential.
Every ringgit lost through corruption, abuse of power, mismanagement or unlawful enrichment is a ringgit that cannot be invested in schools, hospitals, clean water, reliable electricity, roads, employment opportunities and programmes to uplift the living standards of Sabahans.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) therefore carries a responsibility that extends beyond enforcing the criminal law. By investigating corruption and abuse of power professionally, independently and impartially, MACC also helps safeguard Sabah’s future development and strengthens public confidence in the rule of law.
BoPiMaFo therefore calls upon MACC to investigate all credible allegations of corruption, abuse of power and related offences without fear or favour, regardless of the political affiliation, office or influence of those involved.
The law must apply equally to members of the Government, the Opposition, former office holders and public officials alike.
No one should be above the law.
Equally, no person should be presumed guilty merely because allegations have been made. Every individual is entitled to the presumption of innocence and to due process under the law.
Where credible evidence exists, investigations should be conducted thoroughly and expeditiously. Where the evidence is sufficient to establish an offence, prosecutions should follow in accordance with the law. Where the evidence is insufficient, the authorities should explain their decision openly so that public confidence in the integrity of the justice system is maintained.
Sabah cannot hope to eradicate poverty while corruption, abuse of power and weak governance continue to undermine public institutions and divert resources away from the people.
A prosperous Sabah requires more than economic policies. It requires honest government, accountable leadership, strong institutions and equal justice under the law.
BoPiMaFo believes that the fight against corruption should never be selective, political or influenced by the status of those under investigation. It must be guided solely by the evidence and the public interest.
Only then can Sabah fully realise the promise upon which it entered the Federation of Malaysia in 1963—a State governed by the rule of law, constitutional government, integrity in public administration and the fair use of its abundant natural wealth for the benefit of all Sabahans.
