False narratives and perception battles threaten anti-corruption efforts, says Azam Baki
KUALA LUMPUR, April 18 – Managing public perception and combating misleading narratives have emerged as major challenges in the fight against corruption, as wrongdoers attempt to conceal their actions through information manipulation.
Azam Baki, chief commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), warned that such tactics could erode public trust in national institutions.
Repeated misinformation shapes perception
He noted that unverified claims are often repeated until they appear credible, while accurate information risks being drowned out by a flood of misleading content.
Risk to institutional credibility
This trend, he said, poses a serious threat to the credibility of enforcement agencies and undermines anti-corruption efforts.
Media’s role becomes crucial
Azam stressed that the media plays a vital role in ensuring that information shared with the public remains accurate and fact-based.
Collective responsibility needed
He added that restoring public confidence requires joint efforts, not just from the government but also from media practitioners.
Impact on global perception
Failure to address misinformation could also affect Malaysia’s image internationally.
Call to counter false narratives
Azam urged the media to actively counter baseless narratives and help strengthen public trust in institutions.
-wilayah.com.my
