All political leaders who are still linked to a criminal record or involved in a court case have been urged to withdraw if picked to be in the Cabinet.

The president of the Malaysian Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, Datuk Seri Akhbar Satar said the move is to ensure that the Perikatan Nasional government's integrity and credibility would gain the trust of the people.

He said, such actions would avoid suspicions that could affect the party and the government in the long run.

“In appointing the ministers, prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is advised not to select party leaders who have a criminal record, especially those who are still standing trial in court.

“It is better to be honest in order for us to have the integrity and standard in the formation of this new government.

“If this is not taken into account, it will surely be the talking point of the people and the honesty and integrity of the government would be disputed,” he said when contacted by Astro AWANI on Thursday.

Commenting further, Akhbar said that the appointment of the Cabinet members must be transparent besides meeting three specific criteria.

“The first criterion is based on the merits of a person which can be assessed through one’s experience and professionalism in doing the job.

“The second is integrity, that is the leader picked is known not to have done anything wrong for an individual’s interest.

“Next is choosing a leader who is bold to uphold the truth. This means that whatever action taken is a courageous one despite being directed or decreed of doing something not right and unlawful,” he said.