Corruption in the public service system is back in the spotlight when a syndicate selling fake sick leave certificates (MCs) was recently uncovered, raising concerns about the economic implications and productivity of the government sector.
A police raid on June 26 in Taman Songket Indah, Kedah led to the arrest of a suspect in his late 40s, along with two other men in their 30s, along with the seizure of 20 fake sick leave certificates, tablets, laptops, printers and doctor's name stamps.
The activity, which is believed to have been going on for the past two years, used the doctor's real name without permission and targeted civil servants as the main customers.
Kuala Muda District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Hanyan Ramlan announced that the raid at 4.30 am was carried out following an internal investigation into a policeman who was suspected of frequently abusing sick leave.
The case is being investigated under Sections 420 and 468 of the Penal Code for fraud and forgery.
Commenting on this issue, CUEPACS President, Datuk Dr Adnan Mat suggested that digital sick leave certificates be introduced comprehensively, complete with a QR code verification system directly from government clinics and hospitals.
This measure is seen as not only able to combat forgery, but also to strengthen transparency in the public service system.
CUEPACS also recommended the implementation of awareness campaigns and periodic ethics education for civil servants so that they understand the disciplinary and legal impact of this unintelligent practice.
