BANGI: The national education system plays a crucial role in fostering integrity, which forms the foundation of an individual’s character and values, said former Foreign Minister Tan Sri Dr Syed Hamid Albar. He emphasized that integrity is not just a slogan or superficial statement but a reflection of values and practices rooted in sincerity, which must be nurtured from early education. He added that relying solely on policies or laws is insufficient.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Syed Hamid highlighted that despite numerous policies and laws, integrity issues persist. He stressed the importance of returning to the basics, citing Japan as an example where children are instilled with positive values from a young age. These values, he noted, help cultivate honesty and trustworthiness, which are essential for resisting temptations and committing wrongdoings. Syed Hamid shared these insights following his delivery of the 6th Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz Lecture, titled ‘Governance and Integrity: A Perspective,’
at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
The event was graced by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, who also serves as UKM’s Chancellor, along with the Tunku Ampuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud, and their sons, Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin and Tunku Zain Al’Abidin.
In his lecture, Syed Hamid warned that neglecting issues of integrity and governance could lead to national decline. He argued that a culture of integrity at the individual, organisational, and societal levels can only flourish through strong moral values, which in turn cultivate ethical and principled citizens. He cautioned that the absence of consistent adherence to rules and ethics could lead to various forms of misconduct, resulting in negative impacts such as financial losses and reduced investment.
On the subject of good governance, Syed Hamid advocated for Malaysia to extensively use digital platforms to enhance transparency in government opera
tions. He pointed out that the public today seeks access to information, particularly regarding government procurement, project management, and budget allocations. He urged the government to include the public in understanding the rationale behind policies to avoid misunderstandings.
The Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz Lecture series, UKM’s premier lecture series, is organised in honour of Tuanku Muhriz. It serves as a platform for distinguished leaders from Malaysia and abroad to share their insights, knowledge, and experiences, especially in public affairs, governance, integrity, and law. The three-hour session also saw the attendance of UKM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman, as well as Employees Provident Fund (EPF) chairman and former Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.