Bosses warned on funds misuse

Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman on Tuesday warned directors of statutory bodies against misusing public and government funds for personal gain. "Ini berlaku, ini saya tahu (this has happened, I know)… never misuse the powers given to you (directors)," he said at the launching of the Statutory Bodies Course, here, Tuesday.

According to him, there have been many stories of misappropriation by those in authority, some of whom may not have been able to resist temptation.

This is especially those who are aware of the financial abilities of their organisation, he said, adding that "all sorts of ideas" would arise as long as they could "siphon" the money out or obtain it "indirectly".

"We must know how to control ourselves. If you are a Muslim, we must constantly have 'iman'.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Sabah revenue hits RM6.97 billion: Hajiji says GRS State Government may see full term

Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government continued its momentum in managing the economy in line with the commitment and spirit of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) when it posted record high state revenue of RM6.973 billion last year.

"Funds could amount to millions or hundreds of millions … they may be swayed by all this money," he said.

Musa noted those who are tempted sometimes would announce "projects" which may not even be a priority for the organisation.

Hence, he said the organisation then would invest on things, all for a quick profit through projects which the corrupt director had come up with. Musa reminded them they had become directors because they were appointed by the Government, largely because of their abilities, knowledge, experience and recommendations from the people who believed in them.

He urged them to be efficient, accountable and performance-driven as these will always keep them on the right track to success.

"We are all workers … we need to avoid any form of discrepancy and protect the funds. These funds belong to the public and the government," he said.

The result of good governance, Musa said, is the reason why Sabah is leading other states in the country with the most four-star rating by the Auditor-General.

Of 35 organisations, 24 obtained the rating last year, compared to 20 in 2013, he said.

"It's a sign we are making progress. This will hopefully inspire other directors to achieve a similar feat in future," he said.

Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.

Daily Express Malaysia

Of the 24 best organisations, six were state statutory bodies, including Sabah Economic Development Corporation, Rural Development Corporation, Sabah Rubber Industry Board and Sabah Forestry Development Authority, he noted.

Musa also said some of the State agencies which had not paid any dividends to the government, are also doing so now.

Try 1 month for RM 18.00

Try 1 month for RM 18.00

Try 1 month for RM 18.00