KUALA LUMPUR (April 18): Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) has called on the government to compel all members of parliament (MPs) to declare their assets to Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
In a statement on Tuesday (April 18), TI-M president Muhammad Mohan said that there is a need for a Bill to be tabled in Parliament in the form of an Asset Declaration Act or other similar statute to ensure all elected MPs and appointed Senators declare their assets, liabilities and income.
He said legislation such as an Asset Declaration Act must be introduced to make both politicians and those holding positions of power to declare and update their wealth on a regular basis.
“Those who’s wealth has grown significantly within a short period must be compelled to provide an explanation with the necessary supporting information.
“When making these declarations, it is equally important that they must include information related to the Beneficial Ownership of assets to avoid the practice of colluding with a friendly party to avoid detection,” he said.
Muhammad urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to push for this asset declaration law as part of the reform agenda to ensure his administration practises good governance and eradicate any form of corruption among elected representatives and senators.
He said some politicians have said that they are reluctant to declare their assets and income for privacy reasons or security concerns.
“TI-M reminds all politicians that it was they who chose their vocation, and therefore they have to be mindful that as representatives of the rakyat they are expected to be transparent in their actions by practising integrity at all times.
“One of this practice is to make full, truthful disclosure on their assets and income when required.
“Wealth earned from an honest living should be a source of pride, not concern,” he said.
