KUCHING: An economist has suggested that the government provide incentives to whistleblowers to combat misappropriation of subsidised diesel by syndicates, particularly in Sarawak and Sabah, where retail prices remain fixed.
Referencing a subsidised diesel syndicate case in Sibu, Professor Emeritus Dr. Barjoyai Bardai of the Malaysia University of Science and Technology emphasised the need to protect such resources to prevent billions of ringgit in public funds from being lost.
He added that, beyond focusing on “hot spots,” the government should introduce and enhance incentives for whistleblowers to encourage early intervention.
“In many instances, these activities are openly carried out, with diesel stored in lorries or tanks that are visible to many.
“If anyone spots suspicious activities, they should report it directly to the authorities without fear. So offer them incentives and protect them as well,” he was quoted by FMT.
Additionally, Associate Professor Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff from Putra Business School said mitigating the risk of diesel misappropriation, particularly in Sarawak and Sabah can be challenging due to the vast region.
He however said preventive measures must be taken to ensure the country’s resources do not fall into the hands of the unscrupulous parties.
“Rotate enforcement officers more frequently who are tasked with overseeing diesel supply in the area to reduce the risk of corruption.
“Improve the reward system to motivate officers to reject bribery,” he added.
Recently, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) launched the “Op Liter” to tackel the misappropriation of subsidised diesel intended for fishermen, which uncovered a syndicate that had allegedly generated up to RM400 million in illicit profits since 2012.
MACC also raided a diesel storage depot in Sungai Bidut, Sibu seizing two barges and 30 storage tanks believed to hold approximately 1.6 million litres of diesel in addition to confiscating approximately RM3.7 million in cash.
The suspect, who is among the members of the syndicate, has allegedly bribed enforcement officers to avoid penalties, including operating without valid permits for storing diesel.
