MALAYSIA is going all out to rid itself of the “kleptocracy” label, said Dr Mahathir Mohamad, blaming the previous government for the nation’s tarnished image.

In his keynote speech at the Sheikh Tamim Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award ceremony in Putrajaya this afternoon, the prime minister said corruption in any form must not be tolerated, and that it should be treated with “disgust and anger”.

“Malaysia and Malaysians made history in the May 9 elections, when the coalition that had ruled since independence was voted out. Without doubt, it was disgust for corruption that led Malaysians to stand up and vote out the previous administration.

“Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to ensure efforts to improve governance and introduce anti-corruption initiatives that are intended to bring an end to corrupt practices and abuse of power.

“We are not proud that at one time, Malaysia was described as a kleptocracy. Today, we are pulling out all the stops to not only remove the tag, but to also remind all in Malaysia that corruption is not something to be tolerated.”

The 93-year-old Dr Mahathir, who became prime minister for a second time following the 14th general election, told the audience that Malaysia must take corruption seriously if it is to become an Asian Tiger once more.

“It is imperative for us to raise our values and standards, regardless of colour or creed. This is the only way for Malaysia to move forward.

“If we want to join the ranks of developed countries, to be an Asian Tiger again, we need to take corruption seriously. We did not get there by taking shortcuts to success.

“Malaysia and Malaysians can only consider themselves to be developed when they can resist corruption and put a stop to it.”

Pakatan Harapan, upon taking over Putrajaya in May, had swiftly detained and charged top politicians in the previous Barisan Nasional administration.

Most notable among them are former prime minister Najib Razak and his deputy, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Najib has been charged with criminal breach of trust, abuse of power and money laundering involving 1Malaysia Development Bhd funds.

Zahid, who is now Umno president, faces charges relating to his charity foundation, Yayasan Akal Budi, and kickbacks received for projects under his purview as the then home minister.

In conjunction with the anti-corruption award ceremony, Dr Mahathir and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Hamad Al Thani unveiled a sculpture of a raised hand.

The 12m-high monument, made of steel, is a gift from the Qatari government, acknowledging Malaysia’s fight against graft.

The unveiling ceremony, held at Dataran Masjid Putra, was attended by members of the Qatari delegation and senior Malaysian officials. – December 7, 2018.