KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 ― Political parties have become more corrupt of late due to the ambitions and greed of members, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said yesterday.

In an interview with Malay daily Sinar Harian, the former prime minister said such individuals were willing to engage in corruption to gain power and position as well as to enrich themselves

“During my time, there was corruption too,” Dr Mahathir was quoted saying.

“We can’t deny that there is corruption everywhere, be it in the government or in the private sector. But political parties these days are getting more corrupt because they believe that if they become members or leaders of political parties, especially the ruling party, there is an opportunity to make money,” added the former Umno president.

Dr Mahathir suggested that government projects should be approved more quickly and made more transparent so that those involved would not feel compelled to give bribes to expedite the process.

He also acknowledged the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) difficulties in collecting evidence of corruption among politicians, especially if it involved a powerful political party.

“Corrupt people don’t talk. Those who give bribes also won’t talk. They don’t want to go to court. That’s why it’s difficult to get enough information to prosecute,” said Dr Mahathir, who is the country’s longest-serving prime minister.

Malaysia’s rank in the Corruption Perceptions Index 2014 released by Transparency International last Wednesday improved slightly to the 50th spot from 53rd place last year.

Singapore snagged the 7th rank in the survey of 175 countries by the global anti-corruption organisation.