Perak Academy (PA) has upped the ante by organising a talk titled, “Combating Corruption and Promoting Good Governance” presented by award-winning investigative journalist, R. Nadeswaran on Saturday, March 11.
The two-hour talk, which is part of PA’s “Perak Lectures Series” was held at Ipoh Swimming Club. It was attended by over 70 people.
R. Nadeswaran, better known as Citizen Nades, began by alluding to several cases regarding corruption and abuse of power within government and enforcement agencies, which he had uncovered during his 45 years as a journalist.
Although he has retired since December last year, his passion drives him to sniff out bread and butter issues like what he discovered during a recent visit to Melbourne for his book launch.
Nades advised members of the public to make changes by taking action, one at a time, to promote good governance in the country.
“It starts within ourselves. It’ll help in a small way. This is our commitment to make a change.
“If it’s wrong, don’t do it, even if it’ll inconvenience us,” he said.
Nades disclosed that corruption is something difficult to prove. He said this with much conviction as he was once a panel member of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.
“Can you imagine where the bribe starts when both parties benefit? Everything looks good on paper. These days nobody cares about audit. All they care is about themselves and their future,” he said.
One of the participants, Zaira Tak, 66, said it was good of PA to organise a talk on a serious topic which impacted all Malaysians.
“I enjoyed what was discussed today. But what’s disappointing is the absence of youthful participants. I hope the younger generation would open their eyes and see what’s happening in the country, as they are the future leaders. They’d listen to the talk and make changes,” he implored.
Anthony Law, 66, said what inspired him most after the talk was the responsibility all shared as citizens of this bountiful country.
“Nades did what was expected of him although he was just a journalist and a watchdog for the people,” he said.
The talk ended with a book-signing session of Nadeswaran’s popular book entitled, “Curi-Curi Malaysia”. His book was formally launched at Selangor Club on Friday, January 20.
Nabilah Hamudin
