KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 30): Corporate Malaysia should not see the presence of political element in the course of business as a form of interference, said Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz.

Rather, it is an element that needs to be taken into consideration by corporations — especially when the input provided is in the context of nation-building across all races, said the former minister.

"I have a different perspective," Rafidah said at the Asian Confederation of Institutes of Internal Auditors (ACIIA) 2018 Conference here.

"Politics is about development — [about letting you] do something in a bigger sphere, which allows you to serve in the area you are in.

"When you talk about political interference, for as long the political element [and instruction] is for the good of the rakyat, I will [participate and] do it," she said.

"I see politics as an engine, a vehicle for me to do work. It is not an interference," she added.

The analogy, explained the former minister who was also once a lecturer, is like comparing the ability to provide education for students as a lecturer in a university as opposed to being a member of the government.

"In the political field, I regard [the platform] to be even better. I have a bigger base, go to the rural areas to educate… and at a higher level I [can contribute in terms of] policy-making," she added.

However, Rafidah said political consideration can only be managed effectively by a leader of an organisation who has the conscience to act without fear or favour when dealing with different people, including politicians and clients.

"If it is for the good of the political parties, no way. I am not there to serve your political party, excuse me. And the party is to serve the rakyat," she said.