Malaysian Groups Demand Probe Results on Ex-MACC Chief Azam Baki

Malaysian anti-corruption and electoral reform groups are urging the government to immediately disclose the findings of investigations into former Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Tan Sri Azam Baki. The Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4 Center) and the Coalition for Free and Fair Elections (Bersih) have jointly issued four demands, expressing concern over Azam's participation in a National Financial Crime Prevention Committee (NFCC) meeting while allegations against him remain unresolved.

The organizations expressed disappointment that the investigation results concerning Azam have not yet been made public. They called upon the Special Investigation Committee to promptly reveal its findings to allow for public scrutiny. Their second demand is for the government to advise the King to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) under the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1950. This RCI, they proposed, should be chaired by a former judicial officer to investigate allegations involving corporate mafias, Azam's alleged involvement, and shareholding issues.

Furthermore, C4 Center and Bersih demand that the process for appointing the MACC chief be moved from the executive's purview to the Special Select Committee (PSSC) in the Dewan Rakyat. They advocate for clear criteria and processes for appointments, with the removal mechanism mirroring that for Federal Court judges. Their fourth demand is for the MACC to be placed under the PSSC's supervision, granting the committee powers to conduct investigations, summon witnesses, obtain documents, and recommend actions against misconduct.

The groups stated that Azam's tenure as MACC chief has been marred by controversies and allegations of misconduct involving himself and the commission. They argued that the NFCC cannot claim credibility in addressing financial crime issues if individuals repeatedly linked to such allegations remain on its advisory board. The lack of action against Azam and MACC leadership, they contend, makes his presence on the NFCC more concerning and suggests the government is not taking corruption and financial crime seriously, creating an impression of preferential treatment.

C4 Center and Bersih also questioned the Prime Prime Minister's Department's explanation that Azam has been an NFCC advisory board member since 2024, suggesting this clarification only strengthens their concerns.