The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is exploring the introduction of anti-corruption education at the preschool level, aimed at fostering a generation that rejects graft from an early age.

MACC to partner with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) and Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)

MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said discussions are ongoing with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris and Universiti Utara Malaysia on developing suitable content to be proposed to the Education Ministry.

“I have spoken with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris and Universiti Utara Malaysia, and we agreed to present this initiative to the Education Ministry for consideration at the preschool level in a simplified format. The goal is to instil in children, from a very young age, the understanding that corruption is wrong,” he told reporters during a special media session at the MACC headquarters on Thursday (Aug 21).

Azam explained that the proposed content would be designed to suit preschoolers, using engaging formats such as comics and digital media.

He noted that while embedding anti-corruption values in schools was relatively straightforward, challenges often arise once students leave the education system.

“In 2003, we conducted a survey at a local university with undergraduates as respondents. Shockingly, around 30% admitted they would be willing to accept bribes if given the opportunity. This raised serious concern for the MACC’s top management at the time, as these students represent the country’s future leaders,” he added.

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Source: Malay Mail