Have No Fear If You're Clean , Says Pak Lah.

While giving his assurance that action will be taken against those involved in corruption, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said those who do not indulge in such practices should have no fear. The Prime Minister pointed out that what was important was that investigations on allegations of corruption must be carried out in the most just manner.

"Of course no one wants corruption. Action must be taken. Those who are innocent need not worry," he said at the monthly assembly of the Prime Minister's Department, here Monday.

He was referring to the media reports recently concerning corrupt practices and the abuse of power involving several individuals, including the Director-General of the Anti-Corruption Agency, Datuk Zulkipli Mat Noor.

In the latest report, Deputy Internal Security Minister Datuk Mohd Johari Baharom refuted allegations that he had received a bribe of RM5 million for the release of three criminals who had been detained under the Emergency Ordinance.

Abdullah said that generally 85 percent of the reports submitted pertaining to accusations of corrupt practices were unfounded. "Nonetheless, the action that we take is not based on perception but on information, This is crucial. We are always cautious in such matters," he said.

The Prime Minister explained that was why any appointment for senior government posts was only made after the officer concerned had been screened by the relevant authorities. "The officer is only appointed if we find that he has a clean record. That is our practice," Abdullah said, adding that the same practice was also adopted in selecting candidates to represent the Barisan Nasional in the general election.

Abdullah pointed out that what could be learnt from the current episodes was that the rakyat (people), including the civil servants themselves, wanted good and quality administration and government that was free of corrupt practices.

"As such, we have an obligation to carry out our tasks and responsibility with sincerity and efficiency. This is necessary in order for the country to progress and succeed," he said. (Bernama)
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