Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must maintain a balance between firm punitive actions and preventive approaches to ensure long-term effectiveness in the country's fight against corruption, says Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW) founder and second vice-president Prof Datuk GP Doraisamy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Doraisamy emphasized that while punitive measures through law enforcement and prosecution were the MACC's primary functions, non-punitive aspects were critical to instilling awareness and transforming societal integrity. He further explained that punitive action alone was insufficient to eradicate corruption if it was not balanced with educational elements that could change an individual's mindset and conscience.

"We need a balance. Punitive measures are a method to bring offenders to justice, but will that alone completely close the door on corruption? I think not," Doraisamy stated. He added that a non-punitive approach through education and awareness is vital to building intellectual maturity among the people so they truly understand the adverse effects of corruption.

Commenting on allegations that recent MACC actions were selective or politically motivated, Doraisamy defended the anti-graft body's professionalism and adherence to international standards. He noted that any firm action against individuals or parties would inevitably trigger various reactions, and urged the public to adopt a broader perspective rather than a narrow one.

"MACC is doing its job to combat corruption. When action is taken, naturally, some parties will feel affected, leading to dissatisfaction. This is where the people's maturity in thinking is important, to evaluate an issue without being influenced by emotions or provocations from certain parties with their own agendas," he remarked.

Doraisamy also called on politicians in the country to equip themselves with knowledge of corruption prevention and to refrain from exploiting enforcement-related issues merely for popularity.