SANDAKAN: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Sabah recorded 127 complaints, eight arrests, and three prosecutions involving the Local Authority (PBT) sector in the state between 2021 and 2025.
Sabah MACC Director Datuk Mohd Fuad Bee Basrah said the figures were not intended to single out any party for wrongdoing but should instead serve as an important reminder for all agencies to continuously strengthen governance and internal control mechanisms.
“The level of cooperation from government agencies has been very encouraging, with various programmes and initiatives supporting the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2028. We hope this close collaboration, particularly with government bodies, will help realise our shared aspiration of strengthening integrity in public service,” he said.
He was speaking at a media conference after the 2026 Corruption-Free Pledge (IBR) ceremony involving councillors, management officers, department heads, and staff of the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) at the Sandakan Community Hall on Tuesday.
Mohd Fuad stressed that the Corruption-Free Pledge should not be regarded as a mere ceremonial exercise but must be reflected in daily conduct and workplace practices to cultivate a genuine culture of integrity.
“Although Sabah’s vast geographical landscape presents logistical challenges, it will not deter us from continuing to promote anti-corruption awareness, integrity, and good governance. Every year, we organise various programmes to ensure our outreach efforts reach communities across the state,” he said.
He added that the commission viewed the commitment shown by the leadership and staff of local authorities as a positive step towards enhancing administrative governance, improving management processes, and ensuring public service delivery remains efficient, transparent, and driven by integrity.
During the ceremony, the Corruption-Free Pledge was led by MPS Administrative Assistant Secretary Elron Edika M. Sator, followed by a signing ceremony involving MPS management officers and councillors as a symbol of their commitment to fostering an integrity-based work culture.
Also present was Sandakan Municipal Council Deputy President (I) Irman Tajuddin Edy. – James Leong
Irman Tajuddin (3rd left), presents a memento to Mohd Fuad as other senior MPS officials look on.
