LETTERS: It is not easy to eradicate the corruption scourge that has penetrated deep into society. But it is possible if individuals and the government work together.
In a bid to address this, I propose that every government office should have a hotline and email address where bribery complaints can be channelled.
Similarly, in places where an authority is involved, such as roads, bridges, and road construction projects, notices explaining the specific details of the work should be displayed.
The web can help with this as well. Bringing all services online will lead to less bribery and corruption over time.
Strict legislation is also needed. There are stringent laws, but they are not enforced. In addition, new laws should be enacted where necessary.
Prompt investigation and swift action will strike fear into the hearts of the corrupt. Also, victims must be brave enough to report those who ask for bribes.
Perhaps bribery and corruption whistleblowers can be rewarded with 20 per cent of the fines collected from the offenders.
Those who do not want to be rewarded can declare that they wish to remain anonymous.
I believe 80 per cent of corruption cases can be tackled if the government takes appropriate action against the corrupt and supports the officials who take action.
To become a corruption-free nation, public attitudes must change. We should not pay bribes for any work. In line with that, don't vote by taking money in elections too.
N.V. SUBBAROW
Senior Education Officer,
Consumers Association of Penang
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times
