Corruption: Malaysia's PM demands "no graft" undertaking in all government contracts

The statement will be backed up by a reinforcement undertaking by successful bidders.

They must also undertake to act responsibly and comply strictly with specifications.

"They will also be required to enter into an agreement which contains an anti-corruption clause in government procurement.This is our committment to fight corruption and enhance government integrity," said Najib.

But is he fighting a losing battle?

In Johor Bahru recently, a revolution has taken place: taxi drivers all agree to go where they are asked and automatically turn on their meters. Across the causeway in Singapore, that's business as usual. In Malaysia, it's nothing short of a miracle.

In many towns, taxi drivers simply look at the passengers and guess a fee, refusing to use the meter at all. In Kuala Lumpur, some taxi drivers will always take the fare and always use the meter. Anecdotally, however, it seems that the majority do not - and receipts? Forget it.

Recently, signs appeared on the rear door of all taxis: they state, in English on one side of the car and Malay on the other, saying "Metered Taxi Haggling is prohibited.

But it appears to have made little difference, say KL residents.

Ironically, one of the arguments is that bribes have to be paid to "rent-seeking companies" which take over plots and allow only "their" drivers to operate from potentially lucrative pick up spots - and part of that bribe goes to "rent-seeking politicians."