Some civil servants think bribery less sinful than alcohol, says Dr M
Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad today appeared puzzled by the attitude of several Muslim civil servants, who he claims believe that bribery is "less sinful than consuming alcoholic drinks."
Speaking at a meeting with civil servants in Putrajaya, he pointed out that they appeared to be more religious than those who served during the British colonial era...
Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad today appeared puzzled by the attitude of several Muslim civil servants, who he claims believe that bribery is "less sinful than consuming alcoholic drinks."
Speaking at a meeting with civil servants in Putrajaya, he pointed out that they appeared to be more religious than those who served during the British colonial era.
"The civil servants during the British era were hardly involved in corruption, and they behaved like the British officers. They adapted to the Western lifestyle, including consuming alcoholic drinks.
"But now, the officers are religious. They have a mark on their foreheads because they pray a lot. They pray, fast and perform the pilgrimage," he said.
"It is clear that the character of modern civil servants has changed for the better.
"But when they are offered a bribe, they accept it. This is weird. Consuming alcohol is forbidden (in Islam). But bribery is two to three times worse."
'Many of these officers now disappointed'
The prime minister said that many of these officers are now disappointed that they do not receive "extra income" any longer, as the Pakatan Harapan government is actively fighting corruption.
"During the previous government era, some of them were protected by the government machinery. Now they are disappointed.
"It is as if the kleptocratic government is better than the democratic government."
As a result of this, Mahathir added, support towards the government and himself after the last general election is on the decline.
"But the government will continue to clear the country from the corruption. Why? because corruption will destroy the country.
"All duties cannot be executed accordingly and because of corruption, the cost will rise, because we have to add in the bribe cost to the original cost."
Mahathir reminded the civil servants that a country that is deeply involved in corruption will not prosper, even with a change of government.
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