Cabinet to review AG-led probe into alleged MACC shareholding issue, with decision on possible Royal Commission of Inquiry expected soon.
PETALING JAYA: The Attorney-General-led investigation into the alleged shareholding involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki is nearing completion, with the report expected next week.
Speaking at the weekly Communications Ministry press conference, Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the matter also involves claims that the MACC was misused for corporate benefit.
“In relation to the allegation of abuse of the MACC for corporate gain, a police report has been lodged, and the police are conducting urgent investigations to identify any parties who may have broken the law and bring them before the courts,” he added.
Fahmi also emphasised that the Cabinet has acknowledged the proposal to set up a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI).
“The Cabinet agrees that these issues are extremely serious. It will review the investigation committee’s report and decide on the appropriate follow-up actions, including whether an RCI is necessary,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim assured that the government has carefully considered calls for an RCI to investigate alleged “corporate mafia” activity within the MACC.
Also holding the Finance Minister portfolio, he said the matter had been thoroughly discussed and that an official statement would be issued soon.
“We have discussed this matter in depth. A statement will be released,” he told reporters after Friday prayers.
Recently, Anthony Loke of DAP said the party would continue pushing for an RCI, arguing that the seriousness of the allegations requires a more independent and powerful mechanism than the special task force already announced.
Party chairman Gobind Singh Deo also voiced support, saying there is sufficient reason for a statutory RCI to ensure a proper and meaningful investigation, which must be conducted as soon as possible with full powers to ensure transparency and effectiveness.
The MACC, however, has strongly denied the international reports, calling the allegations “a recycled issue deliberately revived to tarnish the Commission’s image and reputation”, and warned that unverified claims could undermine public confidence in lawful enforcement.