THE STAR: MACC should investigate HRDF scandal

This article was released in conjunction with the major revamp of HRDF that caused tensions among many freelance trainers. Do read this article for your further understanding. Article by The Star on 13 TRANSPARENCY International Malaysia (TI-M) views with great concern the recent exposure of an alleged scandal involving the Human Resource Development Fund (HRDF). From media reports, it is understood that the scandal is related to an irregular appointment of a training company under its Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme. It was also alleged that the said company had not undergone due process and proper evaluation in accordance with internal standard operating procedure (SOP) in landing this project. The HRDF manages about RM1bil in mandatory employer contributions for human capital development, is administered by Pembangunan Sumber Manusia Berhad (PSMB), an agency under the Human Resources Ministry. Potentially, there is a lot of money to be made by the training providers, making it very attractive for training companies to participate in the RPL scheme. It has been reported in the media that there has been high level interference resulting in deviation from the SOP and appointment of training companies. As the matter has been reported to Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC); TI-M urges MACC to investigate regardless of whatever position anyone holds and take appropriate action without fear or favour for possible abuse of power, malpractice or non-compliance with internal SOP due to corruption. In the name of openness and accountability, the Ministry must make a full disclosure of the facts of the case, including the allegedly favourable treatment given to the company. With RM1bil to manage, the HRDF should operate in a transparent and corrupt-free environment. Taxpayers’ money must not be misused or mismanaged. DATUK AKHBAR SATAR President Transparency International Malaysia