Eye on Asia - Asia Observer’s blog

Singapore is ranked the least corrupt country in Asia. On the opposite end of the scale is the Philippines, passing Indonesia which used to have the little honorable position.


The annual survey from Political and Economic Risk Consultancy in Hong Kong has been published. The conclusion is clear: The Philippines is Asia’s most corrupt country, followed by Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. Least corrupt are Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan.

The survey is based on the perceptions of expatriate business men working in the region.

Is it a coincidence when countries with political leaders grasping at straws to stay in power, usually deteriorates as well in corruption perception index? - I tell you, its no coincidence, comments the Malaysian blogger Salvatore Dali.
He adds:
Indonesia, Vietnam and India have all improved significantly in ratings. Especially Indonesia, I think anyone who has visited the place for business over the last 3 years can vouch for the changing business climate. The petty corruption still exists but the more corporate business is done at arm’s length.

Some Filipinos react with embarrasment:
From being the 2nd most corrupt last year, our country is now THE MOST corrupt. This is so humiliating!!!, writes blogger Pinkroma.

Indonesian blogger Jakartass looks at his country’s dismal position from another perspective:
“Hurrah

At last, and in response to a letter writer in today’s Jakarta Post who asks for some good news, here it is. Indonesia is no longer alone at the bottom of Asia’s corruption table.

It’s now second from bottom!”

There is always room for improvement, isn’t there?

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