Graft growth puts pressure on the NACC

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) will have to work harder after a survey indicated corruption in Thailand was on the rise, a commissioner said.

Sathit: Improved transparency

Wicha Mahakhun said political problems might have shaken the confidence of foreign investors, leading to a poorer perception of Thailand.

He was responding to the latest survey by global graft watchdog Transparency International, released on Tuesday, in which Thailand scored only 3.4 points out of 10, with 1 being most corrupt and 10 the cleanest.

Thailand ranked 10th worst in Asia, third in Southeast Asia and 84th out of 180 countries surveyed worldwide.

Transparency International conducted the survey among business people and country analysts. Thailand's world ranking dropped from 80th in a similar survey last year, meaning it is regarded as being more corrupt.

Mr Wicha said the NACC worked hard but it could not tackle corruption alone. Foreign confidence in the country also depended on the government's actions.

PM's Office Minister Sathit Wongnongtoey said he hopes improved transparency about the way the government works will help reduce corruption.

The national anti-graft agency would also step up the fight against corruption.

Mr Sathit, who is in charge of state media, said in its efforts to keep corruption under control, Singapore planned to use the internet and television to publicise government projects and receive inquiries from the public.

Mr Sathit had sought details about Singapore's information project and plans to apply it in Thailand.

Mr Sathit said the annual survey showed corruption was still a threat to the country.

Business people could help reduce corruption by refusing to pay kickbacks to officials who were demanding them. Bureaucratic delays also contributed to corruption, he said.