KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has denied the existence of “any so-called Corporate Mafia” allegedly linked to the anti-graft body, as political parties call for a thorough probe into the matter.
In a statement today, the MACC said it completely rejects the “unfounded allegations” and views the dissemination of such accusations with the utmost seriousness, “particularly when they may undermine public confidence in lawful enforcement actions.”
“MACC is of the view that these accusations constitute an attempt to discredit the Commission’s investigations and enforcement actions within the corporate sector, especially against parties who may be affected by ongoing legal proceedings,” the statement read.
“MACC also considers this to be a baseless, recycled issue that has been deliberately revived to tarnish the image and reputation of the Commission.”
The Commission emphasised that all investigations are conducted based on evidence, in accordance with the law, and are subject to established legal processes.
“The spread of baseless allegations originating from unverifiable sources risks misleading the public and undermining confidence in enforcement institutions. Such actions may be regarded as the dissemination of false information and defamation,” it said.
Bloomberg had reported on MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki’s shareholdings and described alleged misconduct within the MACC involving what was termed a “corporate mafia”.
Azam said he had nothing to hide regarding the RM800,000 worth of shares, noting the transaction was properly declared. He has also issued a letter of demand to Bloomberg, seeking RM100 million in damages for alleged injury to his reputation and professional standing.
The Commission stated it will fully cooperate with police investigations, urging those with information or evidence relating to corruption or misconduct to lodge an official report with the relevant authorities.
“Submitting information through lawful channels enables investigations to be conducted in an orderly and fair manner in accordance with due process, rather than through trial by media or publications lacking credible evidence.
“MACC remains committed to carrying out its mandate to combat corruption without fear or favour and will not be deterred by any attempts to undermine its integrity or disrupt the role and functions of the Commission.”
MCA President Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong called for a full and transparent probe into claims that MACC officers were entangled in a “corporate mafia” involved in taking over companies.
DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke had earlier said that his party’s ministers will push for a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into the allegations at Friday’s cabinet meeting.
Calls for an RCI and stronger oversight of the MACC were raised by Members of Parliament in the Dewan Rakyat today. RSN Rayer (PH–Jelutong) questioned why there is no independent oversight mechanism for the MACC similar to the Independent Police Conduct Commission, which monitors the police force.
Hassan Karim (PH–Pasir Gudang) urged the government to establish an RCI to probe both the “corporate mafia” claims and the issue surrounding Mr Azam’s shareholding.
Khoo Poay Tiong (PH–Kota Melaka) said in the august House that this was the second time Azam had been implicated in a shareholding controversy, following a similar outcry in 2022. Khoo also called upon the government to take stern action.
“Azam must resign. He has to go. Either he goes, or we go. If we allow him to continue as chief commissioner, voters will punish us in the next general election,” he said during the debate on the 2026 Auditor-General’s Report Series 1.