PUTRAJAYA: The drop in Malaysia's position in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) should spur higher commitment to fight corruption, says Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.

       The Chief Secretary to the Government described Malaysia's current position in CPI - 62 last year as compared to 57 in 2020 as "not encouraging".

       "Even though this is merely a perception, this should be a signal for us to further strengthen our commitment to fight corruption," he said at the launching of Integrity, Governance and Anti-Corruption Award 2022 (AIGA).

       In January, the Transparency International released its 2021 CPI report, placing Malaysia at 62nd position out of 180 countries.

       Transparency International Malaysia president Dr Muhammad Mohan said Malaysia scored 48 out of 100 points in the index, as compared to its 2020 score of 51.

       Zuki said the award could act as a benchmark for public or private organisations to make integrity, good governance and anti-corruption as part of their work culture.

       "This will be in line with the aspiration under the National Anti-Corruption Plan for Malaysia to be known for her integrity and not corruption," he said.

       Organised by the Malaysian Integrity Institute, AIGA started off as a pilot project with Yayasan Pahang and the state secretary's office.

       Starting this year, AIGA will be a national award.