Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) lauds the government for making the government procurement process more transparent and accountable, including imposing the requirement for signing integrity pacts (IPs).

IPs, if implemented prior to any tender and for all stages of the procurement process, will create a level playing field for all tenderers so that those who bribe do not enjoy an unfair advantage.

Compliance of integrity and responsibilities of all parties – the buyer and all suppliers of goods and services – are laid out up front and are transparent.

Consultants responsible for overseeing such projects, also being suppliers of services, should also be required to sign IPs. Further, stiff penalties for violations, such as termination of contract, forfeiture of performance bond and blacklisting, are spelt out clearly.

All stages of the procurement process must be monitored. Even tender processes must be monitored to ensure that no tenderer enjoys an unfair advantage in the specifications or evaluation of the tender.

To be truly effective and credible, an IP must have an independent outside monitor to oversee IP implementation and ensure all parties uphold their commitments.

We look forward to the proper and rigorous implementation of the changes in government procurement, in order to build public confidence in the government and to curb corruption. Public funds saved can then be used for the benefit of the public.

The writer is president, Transparency International–Malaysia.