KUALA LUMPUR, 7 January 2025 – The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS), in collaboration with the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department, is pleased to announce the Conference on Prospects, Challenges, and Opportunities for Political Financing Reform in Malaysia, scheduled for 14 January 2025 at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

This timely and vital conference aims to tackle the pressing issue of political financing reform in Malaysia. It will provide a platform for policymakers, politicians, academia and civil society organisations to come together and chart a path forward toward fostering transparency, accountability, and integrity in Malaysia’s political funding landscape.

Key Highlights

Opening Remarks by YB Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said

The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) will deliver the opening address, setting the stage for robust discussions on the future of political financing in Malaysia.  

Expert-Led Panel Sessions

The conference will feature distinguished international experts, local politicians, and regional representatives, including:

• Dr Ng Yee Fui, Deputy Director, Australian Centre for Justice Innovation, Monash University.
• He Ting Ru, Treasurer of the Workers’ Party Singapore and MP for Sengkang, Singapore.
• Emeritus Prof Dr Terence Gomez, Former Professor of Political Economy, Universiti Malaya.
• Dr Magnus Ohman, Director, Regional Europe Office, International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES).
• Karīna Poļanska, Chief Inspector of the Legal Division, Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB), Latvia.
• Dr Fernando Casal Bertoa, Associate Professor, School of Politics and International Relations, University of Nottingham.

Discussions will focus on best practices, innovative frameworks, and the challenges of implementing reforms in diverse political contexts. 

Political financing reform is at the heart of strengthening Malaysia’s democracy. By addressing the systemic challenges, this conference will contribute to building a fairer and more transparent political system that enhances public trust in institutions.

IDEAS and BHEUU extend an open invitation to parliamentarians, political parties, business leaders, policymakers, and civil society organisations to participate in this pivotal conversation. This is an opportunity to shape the future of Malaysia’s multiparty democracy through collaborative and informed dialogue.

Event Details

Date: 14 January 2025 (Tuesday)

Time: 9.45 AM – 5.15 PM

Venue: Majestic 2, Level 3, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

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Download Media Statement PDF File Here


For registration or further details, please contact:
Zuhdi Farhan: | zuhdi@ideas.org.my
Ryan Panicker | ryannesh@ideas.org.my