KUALA LUMPUR: The 2023 International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) signifies the importance of collective efforts in combating corruption and fostering integrity, says the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.
Penang MACC director Tuan Ruslan Tuan Mat said this is evident with the collaborative efforts between the graft buster, the Malaysian Association of Private Colleges and Universities (MAPCU) and Peninsula College Penang to commemorate IACD.
He said IACD is a global initiative to promote cooperation through coordinated strategies and raise awareness about corruption challenges.
"As the lead agency in preventing corruption, the MACC is committed to implementing enforcement, prevention and education measures to combat all forms of corruption and abuse of power.
"However, Fighting corruption cannot be done alone. It's a teamwork.
"Therefore, the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) requires state parties to implement coordinated anti-corruption policies that promote the participation of society," he said during his IACD keynote address today.
For the 2023 IACD, the Ship Campus Peninsular College at Bandar Cassia, Penang, was chosen to be the northern zone's strategic partner of the MACC and to serve as the venue.
This year's celebration was conducted virtually and physically with around 250 international students from different private higher learning institutions (IPTS) in Penang, Perak, Kedah and Perlis as the intended participants.
The Ship Campus Penisular College and several other private colleges and institutions in the northern region are among the IPTS invited to take part in this initiative.
Ruslan also stressed the vital role of the younger generation in the fight against corruption.
Urging their support and commitment, he emphasised the need for a younger generation with a high level of integrity to contribute to building a corruption-free Malaysia.
"We wanted our country to be known as one with high integrity, not corrupted.
"The task to fight corruption can start via two actions- don't take bribes and don't give bribes in your daily life.
"If everyone starts implementing these good values, I believe we can easily make this beautiful country free from corruption."
In line with the theme "Uniting The World Against Corruption," Ruslan called everyone to report any bribery offers to MACC.
This collective effort, he said, sends a clear message and warning to those attempting to use bribes to achieve their goals.
"This message is clear to society that no price can afford to pay for our dignity.
"Highest appreciation to those who display high integrity and those who report offers or acceptances of bribes.
"These acts are not easy, but they must be done in the country's interest," he said.
