The Gerakan Wanita wing is concerned over the latest statement by the SME Associate Malaysia and Federation of Malaysian Hawkers Association who reported that entrepreneurs and hawkers had been forced to offer bribes to enforcement officers in order to avoid threats of stiff fines by the officers. In this regard, the best option to solve this issue is to report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) rather than taking an easy way out from the fines.

Although I agree that the attitude of certain enforcement officers is questionable, this should not become an excuse for those who resort to pay bribes over fines. Enforcement officers will have nowhere to ask for bribes if all of us refuse to take an easy way out on our unlawful acts committed.

Both sides have the obligation under the law to report the matter to the MACC. The due course of law must be respected and we cannot shy away from our civic duty in promoting a corruption-free environment.

On the other hand, it is also acknowledged the indispensable responsibility by the enforcement officers, whose roles were to educate the public rather than threatening them. The enforcement officers should carry out a better duties as they were supposed to make sure that all rules were followed, but not to break them themselves.

Public misconduct should not become a “part-time” source of income for these officers. As such, the government should pay greater attention on this issue, as proper education and mentality were needed to allow for better enforcement procedures.

Lastly, Gerakan has been firm on combating, with the belief that the responsibility should be shared by both parties. This is also seen in the latest anti-graft run organised by the Gerakan Wanita wing in April this year with the theme ‘Do not give, do not accept’.

Any parties who felt that they were coerced or encouraged to engage in any corrupt practices should lodge a report to the MACC. They could call the toll-free line at 03-8886-7000/7545/7546 if they prefer not to walk into the MACC offices. Alternatively, they could also send them an email at i nfo@sprm.gov.my or sms them at the number 019-6000696.

TAN LIAN HOE is Gerakan Wanita chairperson.