Multi-faceted approach required to address fraudulent claims of state awards, academic degrees in Malaysia
The use of fake state titles and academic awards, including those from unaccredited institutions, highlights a growing issue of status-consciousness and social prestige in Malaysia over the past two decades.
These are individuals who lack both shame and moral character. Several factors have contributed to this phenomenon.
In Malaysian society, titles and status are highly valued, often symbolising success and social standing. This can drive individuals to fabricate or exaggerate their credentials to gain respect and access to opportunities.
In some instances, the lack of strict verification mechanisms allows fraudulent claims to go unchecked. Individuals exploit this gap, presenting themselves in a more favourable light.
Moreover, the pressure to appear successful and influential can push some to dishonest measures to meet societal expectations and gain acceptance.
Those who resort to fake titles and awards undermine genuine achievements and erode trust in legitimate institutions. They also face potential legal and reputational repercussions for engaging in such deceit.
To address fraudulent claims of state awards and academic degrees in Malaysia, a multi-faceted approach is required.
Government and regulatory bodies must strictly enforce existing laws on the misuse of state titles and academic qualifications. This includes punishing those who falsely claim such honours.
Earlier this year, the Council of Datuk Dato’ Malaysia suggested amendments to the Awards Act 2017 to the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform). These amendments aim to strengthen enforcement against those abusing state awards and titles. The suggestions include giving police the power to arrest and investigate offenders before they are charged. Currently, there is ambiguity regarding police authority under the Act. Questions have also been raised about whether the Act applies at the state level, as not all states have their own enactments related to it. I fully support these recommendations.
Public awareness campaigns can help educate people about the authenticity of titles and degrees. These initiatives can target the general public and institutions, enabling them to recognise and report fraudulent claims.
Additionally, enhancing verification systems for academic degrees and state awards can be effective. Creating a centralised database, where the authenticity of such honours can be verified by the public and institutions, would act as a deterrent to fraud. Unfortunately, many employers and organisations fail to utilise existing databases, indirectly encouraging the continued prevalence of such practices.
Academic institutions of higher learning and award-giving bodies must be transparent about their awarding processes and keep accurate, up-to-date records. These institutions should also verify the legitimacy of their graduates and award recipients before publicising their achievements.
Strengthening the legal framework to include specific provisions for handling and prosecuting fraud cases related to academic and state titles will further deter potential offenders. Clear definitions of what constitutes fraudulent claims, along with appropriate legal recourse, are essential.
Malaysia Madani must cultivate a culture of integrity and meritocracy, reducing societal pressure to falsify credentials. Encouraging and rewarding genuine achievements will shift the focus away from superficial status symbols.
Legitimate professional bodies and associations should also play a role in monitoring and verifying the credentials of their members, ensuring they hold valid qualifications.
By implementing these measures, Malaysia Madani can work towards reducing the prevalence of fraudulent claims and maintaining the integrity of academic and state awards.
The views expressed here are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of Twentytwo13.
