Kuala Lumpur, 22 November 2024: The recent allegations of corruption involving Sabah’s Chief Minister and multiple ADUNs, as exposed by a whistleblower, underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms, starting with the expedited enactment of the Political Financing Bill, say a coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). 

The whistleblower alleges that the Sabah Chief Minister, through the Board of Sabah Mineral Management, directed contractors holding prospecting licenses to explore new areas after significant investments of time and money, purportedly due to objections from another contractor. Additionally, videos have surfaced suggesting ADUNs discussing bribes from certain businessmen.

These incidents reflect deeper systemic flaws, where politicians and elected representatives often depend on financial contributions from private entities, leading to compromised integrity. A robust Political Financing Bill, mandating independent oversight of audited financial statements and incorporating public funding provisions, would ensure greater transparency and accountability, reducing reliance on donations from businesses.

This case also highlights the interconnected nature of institutional reforms. Key measures include strengthening the independence of the MACC, enhancing the Whistleblower Protection Act, introducing transparency in beneficial ownership, enforcing asset declaration laws, and reforming the constituency development fund. A free and protected media environment is also critical to ensuring that journalists can report misconduct without fear of reprisal.

Isolated reforms are insufficient—each initiative must work in tandem to create a robust framework for democracy. For example, a Political Financing Bill would be ineffective if whistleblowers lack protection or if enforcement agencies, such as the MACC, are compromised. Similarly, preventing political interference in GLCs and GLICs is essential to safeguarding public interest and maintaining transparency at both federal and state levels. IDEAS have also advocated elsewhere, that it is imperative that GLCs and GLICs, both at the Federal and the state level, operate transparently and in alignment with Malaysia’s economic and public welfare goals.

We are deeply concerned about attempts to suppress media coverage of this case, as a free press is a cornerstone of democracy. Laws protecting journalists and fostering an open media environment are crucial for holding those in power accountable. We urge the authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation in all aspects while consistently updating the public on the case to assure that the rule of law is respected and that everyone is treated equally before the law. It is imperative that justice is not only served, but justice must also be seen to be served to protect the sanctity of the legal institutions in Malaysia. 

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The civil society organisations (CSOs) and individuals that endorse this statement are:

• The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS)
• National Human Rights Society (HAKAM)
• Rasuah Busters
• BERSIH
• Project Stability and Accountability for Malaysia (Projek SAMA)
• Engage
• Maha Balakrishnan
• Dr Tricia Yeoh
• Andrew Khoo
• Agora Society

Download Media Statement PDF File Here

For enquiries, please contact:
Ryan Panicker
Assistant Manager, Advocacy and Events
T: 03 – 2070 8881/8882 | E: ryannesh@ideas.org.my