THIS is a Malay proverb that simply translates to “people we trust betraying us”.

Based on the complaints received by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) between 2013 and 2018, the enforcement sector is the second highest on the list prone to corruption.

It is normally through receiving illicit monthly payments as inducement not to take action and to receive tip-offs on any planned raids.

Over the weekend, Malaysians were shocked watching viral videos by Hot Burger Malaysia (HBM) claiming that police and the Shah Alam City Council were in cahoots with illegal gambling syndicates.

Immediate response from the Sg Buloh police described the allegations as untrue and inaccurate and reports lodged against HBM on grounds that the clip could be defamatory.

The police denied allegations of inaction by citing statistics showing until July, 40 raids were conducted and 132 arrests made for gambling in the district.

In 2019, up to 91 raids and 107 arrests were made. In a raid in 2018, police seized 260 gambling simulators from a warehouse in Kg Baru Sg Buloh. Between January and May 2018, police conducted more than 400 raids statewide.

While credit is due to the police for their efforts in conducting raids, it begs the question of its efficiency and effectiveness.

After hundreds of raids, how many were brought to the courts and how many were convicted? These statistics will lend credence to the success rate of reducing crimes.

What is more disturbing is that HBM had filed previous reports but his identity was revealed to the kingpins. He even notified the Bukit Aman Integrity and Standard Compliance Department but it seems no concrete action was taken.

The public feels more vulnerable with no one to depend on. If the public is to respect the law, they must be confident that the police themselves adhere to law and order.

Among the questions that need urgent answers include:

- Are corruption and misconduct prevalent among enforcement and non-enforcement personnel in other states?

- Are there stringent selection process and proper training for officers?

- What encourage officer to accept bribes?

Imagine if it was the Road Transport Department, it may result in serious and fatal accidents due to involvement in corrupt acts and misconduct.

From the corrupt official’s perspective, they occupy relatively important positions but not duly remunerated.

Hence, they engage in “rent-seeking”, enriching themselves and the giver but not the society as a whole. Further, punishment is lax, and even their superiors are also engaging in graft.

It has to be noted that the behaviour of a kleptocrat is followed closely by subordinates and the problem multiplies.

In the long term, it could bring about the collapse of an economy.

Money that corrupt officials is money stolen from the public who needs better health care, education and other development projects.

There is hope when the inspector-general gave his personal and urgent attention to HBM. So does the home minister promising stern action against those involved including HBM, if he had flouted any regulations as a whistle-blower.

I am surprised by the statement from the minister because HBM stated he had made reports to Bukit Aman.

I think the minister should focus on the people who received the reports and did not act accordingly.

Next, is to propose to Parliament a review of the Whistleblower Protection Act to ensure graft givers are also brought to justice.

The MACC Act 2009 applies to the private sector and public bodies/officers of a public body.

For serious bribery, the penalty is imprisonment of up to 20 years and a fine of not less than five times the sum/value of the gratification.

The minister could also propose for a review of the penalty since it did act like a deterrent, especially for a recent case involving an ex-prime minister. And push for specific laws governing political contributions.

What we urgently need now is the proposed Independent Police Complaints of Misconduct Commission. The idea was mooted in 2005 and a bill was submitted to Parliament last year.

We also need strong political will, independent and well-functioning institutions that are not subjected to increased influence from politicians.

Hopefully our politicians will stop fighting for positions and focus on the issues at hand.

So ubiquitous is corruption in Thailand that in 2015 its Anti-Corruption Organisation, created a Museum of Thai Corruption at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.

There is a lot to be done and I am sure the public will give their support and cooperation.

Else, it will be like this:

Teacher: “One day our country will be corruption free”, which tense is it?

Student: Future impossible tense. – August 12, 2020.

* Saleh Mohammed reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.