Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's improvement in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025, moving up from 57th place in 2024 to 54th, reflects positive progress driven largely by strong political commitment and continuous governance reforms. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki emphasized the importance of focusing on the country's overall score rather than rankings.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the CPI 2025 released by Transparency International yesterday indicated that Malaysia's score increased by two points to 52, up from 50 in the 2024 assessment. Malaysia ranked third among ASEAN countries, behind Singapore and Brunei, maintaining its relative position within Southeast Asia while outperforming several regional peers.
Azam attributed the improved CPI performance to reforms implemented by the MADANI Government, particularly in strengthening good governance and attracting foreign investment. He noted that the Prime Minister's efforts in engaging with state leaders and promoting Malaysia have convinced investors to invest in the country, resulting in a stronger ringgit and increased investment approvals.
The National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024-2028 remains a guiding document for reforms and governance improvements. Azam highlighted the role of a special focus group and task force, chaired by the Chief Secretary to the Government and himself as co-chair, in formulating strategies to enhance Malaysia's CPI performance. MACC plans to intensify engagement sessions with organizations conducting CPI-related surveys to better communicate enforcement actions and reform outcomes.
Looking ahead, Azam stressed the necessity of sustained political will from the nation's top leadership to improve Malaysia's CPI score. He remarked on the importance of having a leader with a clear agenda in fighting corruption and carrying out reforms to ensure the index's improvement. Azam concluded that for the CPI to improve in the future, critical reforms focused on integrity and good governance are essential.