PKR MPs urge MACC to remain “whiter than white”, calling for integrity, transparency and reforms during an anti-corruption rally in Kuala Lumpur.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must maintain a reputation that is “whiter than white” to effectively combat graft, Wangsa Maju MP Zahir Hassan claimed today.
Addressing participants at a rally in the capital, Zahir warned that any failure by the anti-corruption agency to uphold the highest standards of integrity would only allow systemic corruption to persist.
“MACC is the agency tasked with fighting corruption. But if the agency itself is not whiter than white, what will happen? Corruption will continue,” he told the crowd.
READ MORE: RCI must proceed despite MACC leadership change, says DAP’s Khoo Poay Tiong at rally
Zahir emphasised that corruption is far from a victimless crime, adding that the general public ultimately bears the socio-economic consequences.
“Every crime has victims. Who are the victims? Us. That is why we are here, braving the rain and heat—because we hate corruption,” he added.
The MP also added on the “unusual” timing of the government’s announcement regarding the MACC leadership transition.
The news that Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman would succeed Tan Sri Azam Baki was released 18 days before the latter’s tenure concludes, a move Zahir described as rare.
Zahir called on the incoming Chief Commissioner to discharge his duties with absolute integrity and to ensure the commission remains free from the perception of selective prosecution.
“We want Datuk Seri Abdul Halim to ensure there is no selective action. We want the MACC to be clean, truly clean,” he said, further urging the new leadership to dismantle any alleged “corporate mafia” influence within enforcement bodies.
He assured the new chief that the public would provide the necessary mandate for reform: “If it is difficult, if there are many challenges, we will support him regardless.”
Echoing these sentiments, Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung warned that without a comprehensive and transparent investigation, the commission would remain trapped in a cycle of controversy.
“If it is not investigated thoroughly, the same issues will resurface,” Lee stated.
He pointed to ongoing media reports alleging that a “corporate mafia” remains active, citing cases currently before the courts.
“We are seeing reports that this ‘corporate mafia’ is still operational.
“There are cases in court linked to these scandals, including alleged attempts to halt proceedings tied to corporate interests,” Lee added.
He concluded that without significant structural reform and a full inquiry into these allegations, Malaysia’s enforcement efforts risk becoming cyclical rather than addressing the root causes of institutional misconduct.
