I refer to the letter Is corruption really this bad in M'sia?

Dear Mr Hicks,

Most Malaysian banks will only lend money to businesses that have been in business for more than three years i.e. those who have three years of audited financials. It is expected that the sponsors of a business have sufficient capital to carry out their business during the initial three- year period.

As for bank officers who ask for their 'palms to be greased', I suggest that you inform our Central Bank, Bank Negara, in writing of their request.

For your business venture here in Malaysia, I suggest that you meet up with your existing bankers in the UK and tell them of your intention to do business in Malaysia. Ask them whether they could support you either directly or through their sister banks in Malaysia or through associate banks here.

This would mean using your UK operations' financial strength to support the new venture in Malaysia. Else you will need venture capital or private funding - again, I suggest you try UK sources first.

Malaysia is a great place but we have a corruption problem that was exacerbated during the reign of our previous prime minister and is now appearing to accelerate. But if enough people stand up and say no, and shame these people, eventually the forces of evil will recede.

All the best.