LETTER | MACC seems to be moving in the direction people want

LETTER | In recent weeks, the MACC has indeed been in an overdrive mode.

Its swift responses and actions on corruption-related issues are commendable. 

Members of the public anticipate more personalities to be hauled up in the coming weeks and months, as announced earlier by the commission. 

MACC seems to be moving in the exact direction that we, as voters and taxpayers,  would have wanted them to for a long time.

No one should be spared when it comes to corruption, be it in the public or private sectors. 

The perception that corruption is too deep-rooted, especially among those in power, cannot be more significant with the current arrests and ongoing investigations.

Indeed, it is high time that MACC audits and launches an independent surveillance programme on all political parties, their leaders and personal aides, and above all, the ministers of the cabinet.

Any form of corrupt practice, be it that involves money or kickbacks in the guise of service, should be addressed immediately, regardless of the scale.

The public is sick and nauseated with the level of corruption in the country, to the extent that the ordinary man is being victimised.

There should not be any leniency, especially among those decision-makers who the public has put their trust and faith in running the country. 

The harshest punishment allowed by the laws of the country must be meted out to those found guilty.

It is appalling that, as the days pass, we witness almost every other ministry being tainted or having issues that reek of corruption. 

We welcome the commitment given by the prime minister that he will not tolerate any form of corruption.

But actions should speak louder.

In as much as the public would want a clean government and, by extension, the civil service, we would also appreciate it if the prime minister would reconsider his decision not to ask his ministers to go on leave when their ministry is under any form of a corruption investigation.

While one remains innocent until proven guilty, it is still ethically and professionally inappropriate that the person responsible for his department continues to be in power without sanctions.

There is no doubt that there can never be an ideal zero-corruption system anywhere, but it will only be right to weed it out before it does damage to the masses. 

Let's not justify politically right actions when it comes to corruption. 

Decisions should be morally, ethically and professionally right.

Only then can the nation heal - or else it is just hot air.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.