Ex-deputy IGP urges leaders to drive anti-corruption reforms

Malaysia’s fight against corruption must start with leaders setting the standard, former deputy inspector-general of police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay has said.

Speaking in Kuala Lumpur on August 18, Ayob Khan said stronger integrity and anti-corruption efforts depend on clear political will from the highest levels of leadership. He said public confidence is shaped by whether those at the top demonstrate the same standards they expect from the institutions below them.

Leadership sets the tone

Ayob Khan said leaders should lead by example and show firm resolve against wrongdoing. He argued that a credible national approach cannot rest solely on enforcement agencies, regulations or public campaigns if senior figures do not visibly support a culture of accountability.

The former police number two described integrity as a responsibility that must run across government bodies and organisations, rather than being treated as a task for one department. His comments place the emphasis on prevention as well as action after misconduct is uncovered.

Trust and accountability

Calls for tougher governance have remained central to Malaysia’s public debate, particularly where public money, procurement and the delivery of services are concerned. Ayob Khan said a consistent message from leadership would help reinforce expectations throughout the system.

He added that efforts to strengthen integrity need to be comprehensive. That means officials at every level understanding that the public expects transparency, responsibility and consequences where standards are breached.

Why it matters

For Malaysians, the issue goes beyond political statements. Effective safeguards can affect confidence in public institutions, the use of public funds and the fairness of everyday decisions. Ayob Khan’s message was that durable change depends on leaders making integrity a visible priority from the top down.

18 August 2026