THE Center to Combat Corruption & Cronyism (C4 Center) is urging state polls candidates to declare their assets.

The anti-graft body said in a statement that asset declaration is an important element of open government policies as it allows for increased transparency of the financial positions of those in power.

It added that although Malaysia does not have any statutory requirement for mandatory asset declaration by elected officials, this should not be an excuse for political aspirants to not comply in declaring their assets.

“The public availability of such information enables civil society to also serve as watchdogs to monitor potential instances of illicit enrichment and corruption,” the group said.
State polls for Kedah, Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Penang, Terengganu, and Kelantan will be held simultaneously with the Kuala Terengganu parliamentary by-election on August 12.

Nominations are tomorrow.

Meanwhile C4 Center also added that it will schedule meetings in the coming weeks with each political party in order to get their firm commitment to this matter. 

It reminded candidates of the oath they must take upon election as members of the state legislative assemblies.

“Previously, asset declarations have been made by elected officials and electoral candidates which have not included sufficient details or which have doubtful veracity.

“Therefore, when making these declarations, C4 reminds candidates of the oath: to bear true faith and allegiance to their state and the federation. 

“Their personal interests must never be allowed to conflict with or supersede their functions as public officials,” it added. – July 28, 2023.