Job Interview Cheat Sheet – What Candidates Often Miss

Opening Note:

There are many more tips about interviews, such as body posture, gestures, taking up online/written tests (such as psychometric) and when to nod. However, the following points are what candidates often overlook. Of course, it depends on the industry: a fast-food chain may require casual attire, while a construction site office may need more practical clothing.

1. Be Humble About Your Experience 

Don’t overstate qualifications. Be ready to answer questions from both HR and your potential supervisor.

2. Dress Smart, Not Overdressed

Men: Long-sleeve shirt, slacks, black shoes. Full suit if required.
Women: Modest blouse/top with knee-length skirt or tailored pants, closed-toe shoes.
Muslim women: Tudung/hijab is professional. Keep accessories simple and colors muted.

3. Respect the Process

Don’t peek at notes or questions it’s unethical.

4. Focus on Questions, Not Small Talk

Answer what is asked, avoid long conversations on unrelated topics.

5. Stay Composed, Not Desperate

Simple handshake, hand on chest, or slight bow. Avoid overdoing gratitude.

6. Negotiate Smartly

Research company, role, and market salary. Avoid disclosing previous salary.

7. Listen, Don’t Debate Politics

Remain neutral on sensitive topics, be professional and attentive.

8. Be Punctual

Arrive a few minutes early - show respect and discipline.

9. Be Polite with Fellow Candidates

Smile, nod, answer briefly if asked. Focus on your own interview.

10. Consider Counter-Offers

Ask for around 30 minutes to decide and let them interview other candidates first and you can come later to decide. Don’t rush your answer.

11. Show Respect to VIPs

Address CEO, GM, or MD appropriately (Datuk, Tan Sri, Mr.). Sit straight, hands on lap, professional demeanor.

CORPORATE JARGONS - WHAT THEY DON'T TELL YOU - THE BOMBASTIC TERMS THAT UNDERMINE GOVERNANCE PRACTICES

Disclaimer: The observations shared in this article highlight corporate practices that can obscure transparency, governance, and accountability. They are not meant to suggest that all corporations engage in such practices. Many organisations are upholding the highest standards of ethics, governance, and ESG compliance, and are demonstrating exemplary leadership and integrity in their operations. The purpose of this discussion is to encourage scrutiny, informed oversight, and continuous improvement in corporate practices.

In today’s corporate landscape, language has become a powerful shield.

Annual reports, sustainability statements, investor briefings and press releases are increasingly filled with impressive-sounding terms : order books, adjusted earnings, strategic partnerships, net-zero commitments. None of these are inherently wrong.

But when clarity, metrics, and accountability are missing, language becomes a tool of concealment rather than communication.

This is where credibility, good practices of management systems and board governance expectations quietly erode.

Below are common corporate terms that deserve closer scrutiny, especially by boards, auditors, regulators, and stakeholders.

1. ORDER BOOK VALUE

A large order book is often presented as proof of future strength.

Governance question: 

• How much is legally binding versus indicative?

• What is the cancellation risk and margin quality?

From governance standpoint, overstating certainty misleads stakeholders and distorts risk disclosure.

2. “MISCELLAENEOUS" or “OTHER” ITEMS

These are often dismissed as immaterial.

Red flag: When “miscellaneous” becomes material in size, it signals weak internal controls and poor financial transparency both inconsistent with good practices on accurate record-keeping.

3. ADJUSTED EBITDA

Adjustments are sometimes necessary.

Governance failure occurs when:  Recurring costs are repeatedly labelled “exceptional” to manufacture performance.

Boards should ask: Why does the business need constant adjustment to look viable?

4. NON-RECURRING/ONE-OFF ITEMS

If a “one-off” appears every year, it is no longer one-off.

This practice undermines truthful reporting, a core requirement of ethical governance and anti-corruption frameworks.

5. STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

Often announced with fanfare.

Key oversight questions:

• Is there capital commitment or just an MoU?

• Are responsibilities and risks clearly allocated?

Anti Corruption Practices expects clear due diligence on partners, not headline-driven alliances.

6. PIPLELINE PROJECTS

A pipeline is potential not performance.

Boards should demand:

• Approval status,

• Funding certainty,

• Historical conversion rates

Without this, pipeline disclosures become optimism bias masquerading as strategy.

7. REVENUE GROWTH

Revenue growth alone does not indicate value creation.

From a governance lens:

• Are margins sustainable?

• Are receivables ballooning?

Is growth driven by discounting or risk-taking?

Cash integrity matters more than top-line numbers.

8. COST OPTIMIZATION AND EFFICIENCY INITIATIVES

Cost optimisation is often celebrated.

But what is being cut? Training? maintenance? safety? and compliance? - cuts from these items may boost short-term figures while creating long-term ESG and operational risks.

9. “STRONG BALANCE SHEET”

This phrase deserves interrogation.

Boards must look beyond headline ratios to:

• Off-balance-sheet obligations,

• Short-term liquidity dependence,

• Covenant exposure

True financial resilience is stress-tested, not asserted.

10. DEFERRED REVENUE

Often framed as future income.

In reality, it is a delivery obligation. Failure to deliver can trigger penalties, refunds, or reputational damage directly impacting ESG trust.

11. FAIR VALUE GAINS

Valuation gains are not cash.

When executive incentives are linked to unrealised gains, governance misalignment emerges, contradicting responsible remuneration principles.

12. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Legal does not automatically mean "ethical".

Anti-Corruption practices and good governance require:

• Transparent pricing,

• Independent approval,

• Minority shareholder protection

13. GOING CONCERN STATEMENTS

A going concern statement signals survival, not strength.

Boards should ensure stakeholders understand the assumptions behind continuity, not just the conclusion.

14. DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION/AI-DRIVEN/ESG LED

Buzzwords are not strategies.

Boards should demand evidence of:

• Implementation,

• ROI

• Risk management and controls

PowerPoint compliance is not operational compliance.

15. GREENWASHING - THE ESG CREDIBILITY CRISIS

Perhaps the most damaging practice today.

Common patterns include:

• Selective emissions reporting (Scope 3 ignored),

• Heavy reliance on offsets instead of reductions,

• Sustainability claims without third-party assurance,

ESG without verifiable data, targets, and accountability is greenwashing branding not responsibility.

Governance reminds us that misrepresentation is a corruption risk, even when framed as sustainability.

What This Means for Boards

Modern boards are no longer judged only on financial performance. They are expected to ensure:

• Truthful, complete, and balanced disclosure,

• Ethical conduct embedded in systems, not slogans,

• ESG claims aligned with operational reality

Anti-Corruption principles reflected in decision-making (not just certification)

15. CORPORATE JARGON AND IMPACT ON STOCK MARKET PRICING

Corporate language doesn’t just influence internal governance, it can have a direct impact on market perception and stock valuation.

When public companies use bombastic terms, order books, adjusted EBITDA, pipeline projects, or ESG/green claims  without full transparency, Investors may overestimate future cash flows or profitability, driving share prices higher than fundamentals justify.

Short-term enthusiasm can mask long-term risks, such as margin erosion, unsustainable cost cuts, or one-off accounting adjustments. 

Greenwashing or exaggerated ESG claims can temporarily attract ESG-focused funds, yet may lead to reputational and financial risk if claims are later questioned.

Conversely, strong, transparent reporting builds credibility, leading to more stable valuation, lower cost of capital, and better investor confidence.

Stock markets react not just to actual performance, but to narratives, trust, and perceived governance quality. Boards, auditors, and investors should recognize that clarity and accountability in corporate communication are as critical as the underlying numbers themselves.

In short - the way a company presents itself is inseparable from how the market values it. Misleading or vague corporate language can inflate short-term pricing but undermines long-term shareholder trust and market efficiency.

BRIEF CONCLUSION (for now)

The louder the language, the greater the duty to question it.

Strong organisations do not hide behind terms. They explain them, evidence them, and invite scrutiny. That is the real test of governance, ESG integrity, and leadership accountability. 

PERSPEKTIF ISLAM DALAM PERKAHWINAN - MASALAH PERCERAIAN YANG SERIUS

 Kredit : Facebook WMA Haraki

Terlebih dahulu, Pok Nik ingin memohon maaf jika posting kali ini membuat sesiapapun terasa tersinggung.  

Kebelakangan ini kita semakin kerap menyaksikan peningkatan kes perceraian, sama ada dalam kalangan pasangan muda mahupun pasangan yang telah lama mendirikan rumah tangga.

Hakikatnya, kursus perkahwinan yang ada hari ini mungkin masih belum mencukupi untuk benar-benar mempersiapkan pasangan menghadapi realiti, ujian dan konflik rumahtangga yang sebenar. Ianya jelas terutamanya kaum suami yang tidak mempunyai pengetahuan yang mencukupi mengenai pentingnya niat dan lafaz yang bersabit dengan talak - tidak boleh dipermain-mainkan.

Antara punca utama yang sering berulang ialah:

Pertama, kegagalan pasangan untuk saling memahami keperluan dan batas masing-masing. Ada yang menuntut kuasa mutlak ke atas pasangan, dan ada pula yang terlalu berlembut serta terus mengalah walaupun berhadapan penderaan mental atau fizikal.

Kedua, wujudnya perjanjian bertulis sejak awal berkaitan harta sepencarian, nafkah, bahkan kematian. Walaupun perkara ini dibenarkan oleh syarak dengan syarat-syarat tertentu, ia tetap memerlukan kefahaman yang matang agar tidak menjadi punca perselisihan di kemudian hari.

Ketiga, berlakunya kecurangan. Walaupun Islam membenarkan perkahwinan lebih daripada seorang, pelaksanaannya bukan berasaskan nafsu dan kemampuan harta semata-mata, tetapi menuntut ilmu, keadilan dan amanah yang sangat berat. Iman pula bukan datang dengan sendiri, sebaliknya perlu sentiasa dipohon dan dipelihara.

Keempat, ujian kewangan yang mencetuskan pertengkaran demi pertengkaran. Dalam tekanan beginilah iman sangat diperlukan, kerana syaitan sentiasa menunggu peluang untuk menyesatkan manusia melalui jalan maksiat. Akhirnya, maksiat itulah yang meruntuhkan rumahtangga.

Kelima, trauma akibat menyaksikan atau mengalami ujian rumahtangga yang berat, sehingga ada yang hilang kepercayaan terhadap perkahwinan yang sah di sisi syarak. Akibatnya, timbul pelbagai bentuk hubungan yang menyimpang, termasuk yang diharamkan, malah yang bercanggah dengan fitrah dan agama.

Keenam, sifat cemburu yang berlebihan, khususnya dalam kalangan pasangan muda. Cemburu yang tidak terkawal sering melahirkan prasangka buruk dan syak wasangka yang tidak berasas, seterusnya membuka ruang kepada bisikan iblis untuk merosakkan keharmonian rumahtangga.

Keadaan ini boleh timbul dalam pelbagai situasi sama ada apabila hanya salah seorang yang bekerja, kedua-duanya bekerja, atau apabila salah seorang, khususnya isteri, memiliki tahap pendidikan serta pendapatan yang lebih tinggi berbanding pasangannya. Di sinilah sering muncul rasa tidak percaya dan cemburu, terutamanya apabila pekerjaan pasangan melibatkan interaksi dengan ramai atau sedikit rakan sekerja.

Diakui bahawa kes kecurangan memang berlaku dalam realiti kehidupan, namun sebagai seorang suami atau isteri, setiap pihak wajib menjaga batasan syarak daripada sudut aurat, pergaulan, tutur kata dan maruah diri serta pasangan.

Jika keadaan ini tidak ditangani dengan hikmah, ilmu dan komunikasi yang baik, perbezaan peranan dan latar belakang ini mudah menjadi punca konflik serta pertengkaran yang berpanjangan.

Ingatlah bahawa walaupun isteri memperoleh pendapatan yang lebih besar daripada suami, tanggungjawab taklif syarak tetap diletakkan ke atas bahu suami, khususnya dalam soal nafkah. Kewajipan ini berjalan mengikut kemampuan suami, walaupun jumlahnya kecil atau sekadar memenuhi keperluan asas, termasuk kewajipan zakat sekiranya mencukupi syarat.

Isteri dibenarkan membantu suami dengan hartanya sebagai satu bentuk ihsan dan keredaan. Namun, kedudukan bantuan tersebut hendaklah diperjelaskan. Jika ia diberikan dalam bentuk pinjaman, maka ia hendaklah dianggap sebagai hutang yang perlu dilunaskan, dan tidak boleh dicampuradukkan dengan kewajipan nafkah atau tanggungjawab suami yang telah ditetapkan oleh syarak.

Kefahaman yang betul, kejujuran dalam berkomunikasi, serta saling menghormati peranan dan tanggungjawab masing-masing merupakan kunci utama untuk mengelakkan cemburu berlebihan daripada menjadi racun yang meruntuhkan institusi perkahwinan.

Ketujuh, suami isteri perlu mengetahui dan meyakini bahawa dalam ajaran Islam, wujudnya sihir serta gangguan jin yang boleh menjadi sebab kerenggangan atau perpecahan hubungan rumahtangga. Namun, perkara ini hendaklah difahami dan ditangani dengan ilmu, iman dan panduan syarak, bukan dengan sangkaan melulu atau ketakutan berlebihan.

Apabila terdapat tanda-tanda yang mencurigakan dan tidak dapat dijelaskan secara logik setelah usaha zahir dilakukan, seorang suami khususnya digalakkan untuk mempelajari ilmu perlindungan diri yang berasaskan al-Quran dan sunnah, seperti memperbanyakkan doa, zikir, dan amalan ruqyah syar‘iyyah. Usaha ini bertujuan untuk mengelakkan atau mengurangkan kesan gangguan yang mungkin berlaku.

Sekiranya keadaan memerlukan bantuan, maka hendaklah berjumpa dengan individu yang benar-benar berilmu dan berpegang kepada syariat, serta dikenali amanah dan akhlaknya. Dalam masa yang sama, perlu sangat berwaspada terhadap mereka yang hanya berlagak alim, menggunakan ayat-ayat agama untuk kepentingan diri, atau dukun palsu yang mengamalkan perkara syirik dan menyeleweng.

Yang paling utama, janganlah segala masalah rumahtangga terus disandarkan kepada sihir semata-mata sehingga mengabaikan tanggungjawab muhasabah diri, komunikasi dan usaha memperbaiki hubungan. Pegangan kepada ajaran/hukum agama yang sahih, istiqamah dalam hasrat atau cita-cita yang baik, usaha ikhtiar, doa yang berterusan, serta tawakal kepada Allah SWT adalah benteng terbaik dalam memelihara keharmonian rumahtangga daripada gangguan yang zahir mahupun yang tersembunyi.

Kelapan, suami isteri yang berhadapan dengan masalah hubungan suami isteri atau sering disebut sebagai masalah “katil”, perlu berikhtiar untuk merawat dan memperbaiki keadaan tersebut. Usaha ini boleh dilakukan sama ada melalui kaedah tradisional yang dibenarkan, mahupun rawatan moden termasuk nasihat perubatan, ubat-ubatan atau panduan yang bersesuaian.

Masalah ini merupakan antara punca besar keretakan rumahtangga, namun sering disembunyikan kerana rasa malu, ego, atau keengganan untuk mengakui kelemahan diri. Sedangkan Islam menggalakkan ikhtiar dan usaha memperbaiki keadaan, selagi ia dilakukan melalui jalan yang halal dan beretika. Kejujuran serta saling memahami antara suami dan isteri amat penting agar masalah ini tidak berlarutan sehingga membawa kepada perceraian.

Kesembilan, suami isteri digalakkan untuk mendapatkan khidmat kaunseling sama ada melalui pejabat agama atau kaunselor bertauliah. Janganlah rasa malu atau segan untuk mendapatkan bantuan, kerana kaunselor terikat dengan etika profesional yang menuntut kerahsiaan sepenuhnya terhadap segala nasihat, perbincangan dan masalah yang dikongsikan oleh pasangan.

Kaunseling bukan tanda kegagalan dalam perkahwinan, sebaliknya satu usaha matang untuk mencari jalan penyelesaian, memperbaiki komunikasi, dan memelihara keharmonian rumahtangga. Dengan bimbingan yang betul, banyak konflik boleh ditangani sebelum ia menjadi lebih parah dan sukar diperbaiki.

Sesungguhnya, di akhir zaman ini, penyelesaian yang sebenar ialah kembali dengan ikhlas kepada ajaran agama, walau sebanyak mana dosa dan kesalahan yang telah dilakukan. Perbanyakkanlah taubat. Kita memerlukan bimbingan daripada mereka yang benar-benar memahami hikmah syariat, bukan sekadar menghukum, tetapi mampu membimbing dan menyelesaikan masalah rumahtangga dengan hikmah dan rahmah.

Allah SWT berfirman:

“Wahai hamba-hamba-Ku yang melampaui batas terhadap diri mereka sendiri! Janganlah kamu berputus asa daripada rahmat Allah. Sesungguhnya Allah mengampunkan semua dosa.”

(Surah Az-Zumar, ayat 53)

Dan Rasulullah SAW bersabda:

“Dunia ini adalah perhiasan, dan sebaik-baik perhiasannya adalah wanita (isteri) yang solehah.”

(Riwayat Muslim)

Maka bertaubatlah, kembalilah berdoa kepada Allah SWT tanpa rasa putus asa, walaupun maut seakan hampir. Sesungguhnya rahmat Allah itu lebih luas daripada segala kesilapan dan dosa manusia.

Tragic AC Compressor Explosion at Private University in Kuala Lumpur: A Reminder of Workplace Safety

The photo shown does not depict the actual incident and is intended for illustrative purposes only.

I am deeply saddened by the tragic explosion at the private university in Kuala Lumpur. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the person who lost their life, and I wish a speedy and full recovery to all those who were injured.

The explosion was caused by an air-conditioning (AC) compressor failure. While the exact technical cause is still under investigation, such incidents are often linked to a combination of mechanical, electrical, and maintenance-related factors. Understanding these causes can help prevent future tragedies.

Possible Reasons for the Explosion

• Mechanical failure – Overheating, worn-out components, or blocked airflow can cause compressors to fail violently,

• Refrigerant issues – Leaks or improper handling of pressurized refrigerants (like R-22, R-410A) can lead to high pressure buildup,

• Electrical faults – Short circuits, faulty wiring, or surge issues can trigger sparks, which may ignite combustible refrigerants or oils,

• Lack of maintenance – Poor inspection routines may allow cracks, corrosion, or blocked safety valves to go unnoticed,

• Improper installation – Incorrect piping, insufficient clearances, or not following manufacturer specifications can increase risk.

Safety Actions (That Should Have Been Taken) Before Work (Preventive Measures)

1) Risk Assessment

• Identify hazards related to electrical, mechanical, and chemical (refrigerant) systems,

• Evaluate worst-case scenarios such as pressure explosions, fire, or refrigerant leakage

2) Equipment Inspection

• Check compressor casing, pipes, and valves for cracks or corrosion,

• Ensure pressure relief valves are functional,

• Test electrical components for insulation integrity and grounding.

3) Permit-to-Work (PTW) System

• Implement a formal approval process before starting maintenance,

• Ensure only trained and authorized personnel work on high-pressure or electrical systems.

4) Isolation and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

• Disconnect power supply before servicing,

• Secure all energy sources to prevent accidental activation

5) Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety goggles, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing,

• Respiratory protection if refrigerant leak risk exists

6) Training and Emergency Preparedness

• Staff must know how to respond to leaks, fire, or explosion,

• Ensure fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and emergency contact numbers are accessible.

7) Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

• Adhere to recommended operating pressures and maintenance schedules,

• Avoid overloading or modifying the compressor system.

8) Environmental Controls

• Work in well-ventilated areas to prevent refrigerant accumulation,

• Ensure escape routes and emergency evacuation plans are clear.

REMEMBER

Most AC compressor explosions are preventable with regular maintenance, proper installation, pressure monitoring, and strict safety protocols. A failure to perform any of these increases the risk of serious injury or death.

This incident is a solemn reminder of the importance of strict safety measures, proper maintenance, and careful risk assessment in workplaces. Ensuring these steps are followed can protect lives and prevent tragedies like the one we sadly witnessed.

DAULAT NAN DIJUNJUANG DARI RENDAH HATI

 DAULAT NAN DIJUNJUANG DARI RENDAH HATI

Di balai nan batungkuik,

Di laman nan balapangkan,

Kito berhimpun manjunjung adat,

Maninggikan marwah, mamuliakan daulat.

Bukan takhta nan mambuek raja dimuliakan,

Bukan mahkota nan mambuek kerabat diagungkan,

Tapi adab nan dipakai saban laku,

Budi nan dipeliharo saban waktu.

Nan kuriak iyolah kundi,

Nan merah iyolah sago,

Nan baik iyolah budi,

Nan indah iyolah baso.

Itulah pakaian orang besar,

Itulah perhiasan nan indak lapuak,

Karano baso nan elok mamaut hati,

Budi nan baik mamagari kuaso.

Tinggi tampak jauah,

Rendah tampak dakek.

Nan tinggi indak mamutuskan hubungan,

Nan rendah indak mambuang hormat,

Kerabat nan beradat bak payuang nagari,

Menaungi tanpa manindieh.

Gadang jan malendo,

Tinggi jan manindieh.

Padi nan barisi tunduk ka bumi,

Air nan dalam tampak tenang.

Itulah adat nan bakato diam,

Nan arif dipahami, nan tuluih diraso.

Moga-moga daulat tatap dalam adab,

Marwah basandi budi nan elok,

Supayo nan dirajo indak ka hilang adatnyo,

Nan dimuliakan indak lupo diri.

ATTENTION : MINISTRY OF HEALTH MALAYSIA

Despite the commendable efforts of our government hospitals, health centres, and clinics in serving Malaysians, I remain puzzled as to why mandatory vaccinations for Hajj or overseas travel are frequently unavailable at these facilities. As a result, underprivileged groups are often forced to seek services from private clinics and hospitals, where the cost of medical check-ups, tests, and vaccinations is far beyond their means. This situation places an unnecessary financial burden on those who can least afford it. I believe the Ministry of Health should take proactive measures to ensure an adequate and consistent supply of mandatory vaccines at government healthcare facilities, so that access to essential preventive healthcare is equitable and affordable for all Malaysians.

LOG FROM AN OLD DIARY - HARD TALK

Today in history - In 2020, I was deeply disappointed to uncover cases of significant misappropriation within business entities, where company funds were diverted for personal use not just by managers, but more painfully, by trusted directors and shareholders.

This often led to delayed or unpaid vendor payments (one of them was me) and staff salaries. Such conduct not only erodes trust and damages business relationships, but also exposes the company to blacklisting, prolonged legal disputes, winding-up proceedings, and, ultimately, potential business failure. It also causes unnecessary suffering to their own families as well as the families of staff, vendors, contractors, and subcontractors.

When directors use company funds for personal lifestyle expenses, the conduct may constitute Criminal Breach of Trust (CBT) under section 409 of the Penal Code, not merely poor governance. A company is a separate legal entity, and directors are fiduciaries entrusted with its assets; shareholding does not confer ownership of company money.

All payouts without proper board approval, valid remuneration structures, declared dividends, or legitimate reimbursement, directors may breach their statutory duties under sections 213 and 218 of the Companies Act 2016. Such dishonest breaches can escalate from civil liability to criminal prosecution and, in aggravated cases, may also trigger exposure under AMLA and corruption-related laws.

I commend the bravery of the staff ironically, the very person who had worked tirelessly to ensure the company’s funds flowed properly and maintained its credit facilities, took my advice and reported the matter to the authorities, ensuring appropriate action was taken. 

I wish this unsung hero well, wherever the person is. Sometimes, it’s alright to “lose” when it means doing the right thing.

This experience serves as a strict reminder to me to always properly screen any company even the very people I intend to work with. Accountability exists and when conscience fails, the law does not.

Being a person who share the responsibility in the company now, I always remind myself constantly especially after prayers - no matter how difficult the situation, I will never take money that is tainted or dishonestly gained.

Those who have worked with me know that after that difficult period, I always made it a point to pay staff their final salaries and personally apologize for having to close the business. 

Today, I am deeply touched many of them have told me they would leave their jobs to come and work with me again.

OPERATION SECRECY VS GOVERNANCE TRANSPARENCY

There have been reports alleging corruption involving individuals at senior levels within our defence forces. Any such allegations, if substantiated, must be addressed firmly and without exception. Upholding integrity within national institutions is essential to maintaining public trust and operational credibility.

I support the investigation and disclosure of corruption where evidence exists, particularly in cases where projects may have been awarded contrary to established procurement and approval frameworks such as AP, PP, APK, ABK, APer, and other relevant governance instruments. Procurement decisions should be based on merit, compliance, and value-for-money, not influence or personal interest.

Transparency in the tendering and award process is critical. This includes:

1) Clear documentation of evaluation criteria and decision-making justifications,

2) Public visibility of outcomes through official portals or equivalent digital systems, where appropriate

3) Full disclosure and management of any actual or perceived conflicts of interest

However, matters involving national security, defence capabilities, or classified operations must be treated differently. Such information is not meant for public exposure, as disclosure could compromise security, strategic advantage, or personnel safety. That said, confidentiality must never be used as a shield for misconduct.

Accordingly:

1) Defence-related procurements should remain subject to independent oversight and audit, including review by the Auditor General and other authorised bodies

2) Audits must be conducted with strict confidentiality protocols, ensuring accountability without compromising national interests

3) There must be a clear distinction between OPERATIONAL secrecy and GOVERNANCE transparency

In summary, transparency and accountability must coexist with national security imperatives. One should not be sacrificed in the name of the other. A mature governance system is one that enforces integrity rigorously, while safeguarding the nation responsibly.

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Terdapat laporan yang mendakwa berlakunya rasuah melibatkan individu di peringkat tertinggi dalam pasukan pertahanan negara. Sebarang dakwaan sedemikian, jika dibuktikan, mesti ditangani dengan tegas dan tanpa pengecualian. Pemeliharaan integriti dalam institusi negara adalah penting bagi mengekalkan kepercayaan awam serta kredibiliti operasi.

Kita menyokong siasatan dan pendedahan kes rasuah berdasarkan bukti yang sah, khususnya dalam keadaan di mana projek-projek didakwa telah dianugerahkan bertentangan dengan kerangka perolehan dan kelulusan yang ditetapkan seperti AP, PP, APK, ABK, APer serta instrumen tadbir urus lain yang berkaitan. Keputusan perolehan hendaklah dibuat berasaskan merit, pematuhan dan nilai untuk wang (value-for-money), bukannya dipengaruhi oleh kepentingan peribadi atau campur tangan pihak tertentu.

Ketelusan dalam proses tender dan penganugerahan adalah amat kritikal. Ini merangkumi:

1) Dokumentasi yang jelas berkaitan kriteria penilaian serta justifikasi dalam proses membuat keputusan;

2) Ketelusan keputusan kepada umum melalui portal rasmi atau sistem digital setara, jika bersesuaian;

3) Pendedahan penuh serta pengurusan yang berkesan terhadap sebarang konflik kepentingan, sama ada yang sebenar atau yang dilihat wujud.

Namun begitu, perkara-perkara yang melibatkan keselamatan negara, keupayaan pertahanan atau operasi berperingkat perlu ditangani secara berbeza. Maklumat sedemikian tidak wajar didedahkan kepada umum, kerana pendedahan boleh menjejaskan keselamatan, kelebihan strategik atau keselamatan anggota. Walau bagaimanapun, kerahsiaan tidak boleh sama sekali dijadikan pelindung kepada salah laku.

Sehubungan itu:

Perolehan berkaitan pertahanan hendaklah kekal tertakluk kepada pengawasan dan audit bebas, termasuk semakan oleh Jabatan Audit Negara serta badan-badan berkuasa lain yang diberi mandat.

Proses audit mestilah dilaksanakan dengan protokol kerahsiaan yang ketat, bagi memastikan kebertanggungjawaban tanpa menjejaskan kepentingan negara.

Perlu wujud pembezaan yang jelas antara kerahsiaan OPERASI dan ketelusan TADBIR URUS.

Sebagai kesimpulan, ketelusan dan apa yang dipertanggungjawabkan mesti bergerak seiring dengan keperluan keselamatan negara. Salah satu tidak wajar dikorbankan atas nama yang lain. Sistem tadbir urus yang matang ialah sistem yang menguatkuasakan integriti secara tegas, sambil melindungi kepentingan negara dengan penuh tanggungjawab.

KINDLY INCLUDE ME IN YOUR PRAYERS

Facing a few critical financial challenges in my business at the moment. Keeping my focus steady and moving forward. I’ve decided to try crowdfunding as a structured way forward, while continuing my own efforts. Will be offline for a few days. My friends, kindly include me in your prayers, if you’re able. 

NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER

(not the real photo - for illustrative purposes only)

I've seen many social experiments in many episodes that reveal how people treat those they perceive as low-profile, and how eye-opening it can be when roles are reversed. I experienced something similar in real life.

In 1999, I was invited to give a two-day course on QHSE management systems. Naturally, as a consultant, I wore a full suit, and the course was a success. About a week later, it was time to receive my payment. This time, because it was 1/2 day, I arrived casually in a short-sleeve t-shirt and jeans, having made an appointment in advance with the Secretary to the boss.

At the entrance, a man who I assumed was the Secretary’s driver questioned who I was and why I was there. I took a deep breath, remained patient, and calmly explained that I had business to attend to and had already scheduled an appointment. Suddenly, I noticed his expression change, as if he was seeing someone behind me. When I turned, I saw a manager who had attended the course. The manager seemed to signal “no,” shaking his head, but quickly returned to a neutral demeanor. I greeted the manager, and when I turned back, the driver had disappeared.

I met with the Secretary, who asked how the driver had treated me. I reassured her not to take any action, the driver was simply doing his job. Later, near my car, a guard commented, “Serves him right for not recognizing who you were.” I smiled and told the guard not to worry. He then remarked that I was very considerate for not causing trouble.

The lesson from that day is clear: people can be quick to judge based on appearances. But patience, humility, and understanding go a long way. Often, those we overlook or underestimate are simply performing their roles, and treating them with respect even when they don’t recognize us reflects true character.