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New Straits Times
22-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
EAIC: Whistleblower disclosures should strengthen integrity, not be feared
KUALA LUMPUR: The Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) said enforcement agencies should not regard whistleblower disclosures, including those made through unofficial channels such as Telegram, as threats or adversaries. Instead, EAIC chairman Tan Sri Dr Ismail Bakar said such revelations should be regarded as an opportunity for the respective agencies to strengthen their integrity and public confidence. Citing the Telegram channel 'Edisi Siasat' which exposes alleged misconduct within enforcement bodies, Ismail said the commission takes all complaints of power abuse seriously. Ismail said that the EAIC would act upon complaints, regardless of whether they were submitted via official or unofficial channels. "Although platforms like 'Edisi Siasat' on Telegram are not categorised as official complaint channels, the information shared can trigger preliminary investigations if it contains credible and reasonable elements. "In certain situations, such information can serve as a catalyst for initial investigative action. "Under the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission Act 2009 [Act 700], the EAIC is empowered to initiate investigations on its own initiative if it is satisfied that the matter holds significant public interest or is necessary in the public interest," he told Berita Harian today. Commenting on the response of enforcement agencies towards revelations made by such Telegram channels, Ismail said that investigating such claims, whether true or false, reflects a commitment to transparency and institutional reform. "If the allegations are baseless, investigations can help clear the agency's name," he said. Ismail, however, said if misconduct is proven, appropriate action can be taken against those involved. "This approach aligns with the principles of accountability and good governance," he added.


Free Malaysia Today
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
Don't fear whistleblower channels like Edisi Siasat, enforcement agencies told
EAIC chairman Ismail Bakar said information from sources such as Edisi Siasat, if credible and relevant, should warrant prompt investigations. PETALING JAYA : The Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) has advised enforcement agencies not to view allegations of misconduct, including those from unofficial sources like Edisi Siasat, as threats. EAIC chairman Ismail Bakar said such disclosures should be seen as opportunities for agencies to strengthen their integrity and public trust, Berita Harian reported. He said information from channels such as Edisi Siasat could still warrant attention and spur investigations if deemed credible and relevant. 'In some cases, such information can serve as the basis for initiating early investigation efforts,' he was quoted as saying. 'Under the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission Act 2009 (Act 700), EAIC is empowered to initiate investigations on its own accord if it deems that the matter is of significant public interest or necessary.' Edisi Siasat, an anonymous Telegram channel, is known for publishing whistleblower-style allegations, particularly targeting public institutions and enforcement agencies. Despite being unofficial, its posts often gain traction and trigger public debates. Ismail said investigating such allegations, whether true or false, would show transparency and a commitment to institutional reform. 'If the allegations are baseless, investigations can clear the agency's name. But if misconduct is proven, further action can be taken against those involved. 'This approach aligns with the principles of accountability and good governance,' he said. Ismail added that the EAIC welcomed information that could help boost integrity and urged the public to cooperate to ensure investigations were fair and evidence-based.


Free Malaysia Today
25-04-2025
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
MIH Megatrends 2025 to spotlight sustainability in healthcare
Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad (fifth from left) at the pre-launch ceremony of the Malaysia International Healthcare Megatrends 2025. KUALA LUMPUR : The Malaysia International Healthcare Megatrends will return for a second year, and it has set its sights on being more impactful than ever by bringing together global thought leaders, policymakers, clinicians and industry experts. The global healthcare conference, happening from Nov 25-27 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, aims to position Malaysia at the forefront of regional health transformation and innovation, in light of the nation's Asean chairmanship this year. Under the theme 'Innovating for a Healthier Sustainable Future', the event will introduce new programme elements, including focussed breakout tracks, interactive engagement zones, and a three-day exhibition split into six key elements, said KPJ Healthcare chairman Ismail Bakar. The six elements include advanced medical technologies, biopharmaceuticals and advanced therapies, digital health, AI-powered diagnostics and telemedicine, community health and public wellness, as well as sustainable healthcare solutions. Ismail Bakar. 'We eagerly anticipate the innovations and ideas these exhibitors will showcase: solutions that do not merely address today's needs but anticipate the trajectory of healthcare transformation,' Ismail said at the soft launch of MIH Megatrends 2025 here today. The conference is in line with the health ministry's strategic priorities, particularly in advancing the aspirations outlined in the health white paper; a comprehensive plan to reform the healthcare sector in phases over the next 15 years. Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad, who was present at the launch, said MIH Megatrends 2025 will focus on tackling issues related to non-communicable diseases, public health and sustainability. 'It's important for the conference to present itself as a platform where we exchange groundbreaking research findings and innovations. These efforts are crucial in ensuring a healthcare system that is equitable, resilient and sustainable for future generations,' he said. KPJ Healthcare president and managing director Chin Keat Chyuan said he expects attendance to surpass the 20,000 online and in-person visitors recorded at last year's event. Chin Keat Chyuan. 'We are definitely aspiring to become the biggest healthcare conference (in Asean) because it not only involves megatrends in Malaysia, but we also want to open up the stage for everyone in Asean,' he told reporters. Dzulkefly also highlighted the practice of precision medicine and genomic medicine, both of which he believes will become 'the centre piece of innovation' in the healthcare industry. 'I see the potential and benefits of genomic medicine in delivering truly personalised care,' he said. 'I want to emphasise that health is a fundamental human right, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their socioeconomic status, gender, age and ethnicity,' he said.