MACC targets primary schools in fight against graft:
Agency targets primary schools in fight against graft
KEPALA BATAS: The Malaysian AntiCorruption Commission (MACC) will now include primary schools as part of its fight against graft following the launch of the “Sahabat Cilik SPRM” programme.
Aside from the programme, launched simultaneously in 14 schools nationwide, the commission is also in discussion with the Education Ministry to form anticorruption clubs or cadet bodies in all schools.
“It’s best to inculcate anticorruption early, and MACC is working closely with the ministry to teach schoolchildren to identify corruption, its effect and consequences,” said MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Dzulkifli Ahmad.
“We can create a new generation of Malaysians who don’t just hate graft, but feel responsible to say no, whether as recipient or giver,” he told the press after launching the programme at SK Hashim Awang here yesterday.
“Commissioner DZ”, the MACC’s mascot created by Studio Animonsta to attract children’s attention, was also launched together with the Sahabat Cilik programme.
As for the anticorruption school programme, Dzulkifli said it would be used to inform students about MACC’s activities and role from an early stage.
Separately, Deputy Chief Commissioner (Prevention) Datuk Shamsun Baharin Mohd Jamil said Opposition parties had never submitted their candidates for vetting by MACC over the past three decades.
“In my 34 years of service, I’ve never come across the names of any Opposition party candidates being submitted for vetting.
“Although it’s not compulsory, having the candidates vetted will ensure he or she is corruptionfree,” he told a press conference yesterday.
Shamsun Baharin said only the ruling parties have submitted names of their candidates.
“Gerakan had their members sign a pledge against corruption,” he added.