THE Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) has applauded Malaysia’s rise to 54th place globally in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025.
However, its president Datuk William Ng said while this progress is an achievement, it is a “modest” one and the country “could have done better”, adding that the expectations of the business community for a more transparent business ecosystem remains high.
“However, an achievement is an achievement nonetheless, and it signals that the structural reforms initiated over the past two years are beginning to take root,” he stated.
“Eradicating systemic corruption is not a matter of simple policy changes, as it requires an overhaul of long-standing institutional processes.
“Like all other Malaysians, we are disappointed with the pace of reform, but as with any major national initiative, this will take time.”
Ng said the rise in the country’s ranking is a result of concrete steps including the enforcement of the Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act 2023, the empowerment of the Auditor-General through the Audit Act (Amendment) 2024, and the recent passing of the Government Procurement Act 2025, which is set to come into full effect this year.
“As the Government Service Efficiency Commitment Act 2025 (Iltizam Act) takes effect, alongside the Bureaucratic Red Tape Reform (RKB), we expect a further improvement this year,” he continued.
“By digitalising touchpoints and removing antiquated regulations, we are systematically closing the windows of opportunity for corruption.”
Calling for Malaysians, particularly the country’s 1.2 million SMEs, to remain patient and stand firmly behind these initiatives, Ng said corruption is a hidden tax on business.
“By supporting the government’s war on corruption we are ultimately lowering the cost of doing business and ensuring Malaysian SMEs remain competitive in the global supply chain,” he added.
“This transition from being a ‘low-cost’ economy to a ‘high-value, high-trust’ one will take the joint efforts of the public and private sector.” ‒ Feb 12, 2026
Main image:
