Enhancing Transparency and Combatting Corruption in Public Procurement
A System for Direct Transfers Reduces Risk of Corruption
MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki has emphasized the importance of digital platforms in enhancing transparency in public procurement. According to Azam, a system that allows subsidies, welfare, and salaries to be transferred directly to beneficiaries without intermediaries reduces the risk of corruption. This is evident in the transition to a cashless system, which has helped reduce corruption and mismanagement of public funds.
Azam’s statement comes as no surprise, given the statistics on public procurement-related complaints received by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). In August last year, 70% of the complaints received by the anti-graft agency for the first seven months of 2024 were related to public procurement. This percentage has remained relatively consistent, standing at 69% in 2023 and 67% in 2022.
Integrating Blockchain Technology and Artificial Intelligence
To combat increasingly sophisticated corruption tactics, Azam has announced that the MACC is integrating blockchain technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations and investigations. The use of blockchain technology ensures immutable transaction records, while AI enhances data analytics, enabling the detection of fraud patterns and financial irregularities.
Azam also emphasized that technological advancements have made it more difficult to tackle corruption-related crimes, including cryptocurrency fraud. However, he assured that the MACC is equipped to tackle these challenges head-on, thanks to its advanced forensic tools and analytical data software. MACC officers have also received specialized training in finance, accounting, engineering, and technology to better equip them for the task.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of digital platforms and advanced technologies is crucial in enhancing transparency and combating corruption in public procurement. The MACC’s efforts to integrate blockchain technology and AI into its operations and investigations demonstrate its commitment to staying ahead of the curve and tackling corruption-related crimes.
FAQs
Q: What is the main benefit of using digital platforms in public procurement?
A: The main benefit is the reduction of corruption and mismanagement of public funds, as subsidies, welfare, and salaries are transferred directly to beneficiaries without intermediaries.
Q: What percentage of complaints received by the MACC are related to public procurement?
A: According to the MACC, 70% of complaints received in August 2024 were related to public procurement, with similar percentages in 2023 and 2022.
Q: How does the MACC plan to combat increasingly sophisticated corruption tactics?
A: The MACC is integrating blockchain technology and artificial intelligence into its operations and investigations to stay ahead of the curve and tackle corruption-related crimes.