Malaysia Calls for Strengthened Regional Integrity to Combat Corruption, Refuses to Sacrifice Public Trust for Economic Progress

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), Datuk Seri Azalina, said that ASEAN member countries should foster regional integrity by sharing accountability and strengthening public-private sector cooperation in fighting corruption.

She pointed out that ASEAN’s rapid development must always be based on transparency, integrity, and justice to ensure that economic progress does not come at the expense of public trust.

“Upholding the values of fairness and justice must always be at the core of ASEAN’s progress. Integrity is not merely a moral obligation, but also the foundation of an inclusive and sustainable society.”

She made these remarks today (28th) in her opening speech at the 21st ASEAN Parties Against Corruption (ASEAN PAC) meeting.

The three-day conference will conclude on the 30th of this month, bringing together the region’s top anti-corruption officials and international partners, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the United Nations Development Programme.

Azalina also witnessed Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission deputy chairman Fitroh handing over the ASEAN-PAC chairmanship to Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief Tan Sri Azam Baki.

Azalina said that this forum serves as a key platform for member countries to exchange ideas and to establish new frameworks to strengthen regional anti-corruption cooperation.

She added that Malaysia’s ongoing legal and institutional reforms reflect the nation’s belief that the fight against corruption must transcend borders and be advanced as a regional mission.

Meanwhile, Azam Baki said Malaysia’s assumption of the ASEAN-PAC chairmanship symbolizes a regional responsibility and reflects a new commitment to strengthen solidarity among anti-corruption agencies.

“This is not just a ceremonial role, but a solemn responsibility to deepen our shared mission to uphold integrity and good governance.”

He pointed out that, as chair, Malaysia will focus on strengthening ASEAN’s anti-corruption cooperation through innovation, digital coordination, and knowledge sharing.

He also announced the launch of the ASEAN-PAC website, a digital platform for fostering coordination among member agencies and enhancing transparency, stressing the importance of linking integrity with economic competitiveness.

Additionally, outgoing chairman Fitroh thanked all ASEAN-PAC members for their continued support during Indonesia’s chairmanship, including their recognition of the successful implementation of regional initiatives such as the ASEAN-PAC capacity building workshop and the anti-corruption film festival.

“Under Malaysia's leadership, we are confident that ASEAN-PAC will continue to provide substantial recommendations to the ASEAN Summit and play a greater role in shaping regional anti-corruption policies.”