The Malaysian Bar has cautioned that a new MACC chief alone cannot restore public confidence, urging deeper institutional reforms to safeguard the agency’s independence.
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Bar has cautioned that the appointment of a new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief will not, on its own, restore public confidence, warning that deeper institutional reforms are urgently needed to safeguard the agency’s independence.
Malaysian Bar President Anand Raj said that while the Bar acknowledges the appointment of Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman, effective May 13, 2026, it remains concerned about the broader framework governing the MACC. Specifically, the Bar highlighted ongoing issues surrounding leadership tenure and institutional autonomy.
His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia consented to the appointment following a proposal by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The decision was confirmed in a statement by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar on April 25.
The appointment was made under Subsection 5(1) of the MACC Act 2009. While the government expressed confidence that Abdul Halim’s extensive experience and integrity would strengthen governance and enhance public trust, the legal community remains focused on the structural limitations of the role.
Anand stressed that recurring uncertainties over the tenure and annual renewal of the Chief Commissioner’s contract risk undermining the anti-corruption framework.
He pointed to the Malaysian Bar’s previous memorandum on MACC reform, which advocated for the commission to be insulated from executive influence.
“The MACC must be reformed to ensure transparent appointments and an appropriate fixed term for its Chief Commissioner, to avoid uncertainty and unnecessary speculation,” Anand said.
The Bar’s proposal includes calls for a fixed leadership tenure to ensure the commission’s head can operate without the pressure of frequent contract renewals.
Abdul Halim brings a wealth of experience in criminal law to the position. He previously served as a Deputy Public Prosecutor at the Attorney General’s Chambers and later as a High Court Judge, where he presided over a wide range of high-profile criminal proceedings.
According to Anand, Abdul Halim is well acquainted with the foundational principles of justice and the rule of law.
These include the presumption of innocence and the burden of proof beyond reasonable doubt.
They also encompass the constitutional right to legal professional privilege, the right to legal counsel, and the right to a fair trial.
In addition, he is expected to be guided by the rules of natural justice and the broader duty of upholding the integrity of the criminal justice system.
Anand emphasised that the role of Chief Commissioner demands objectivity, independence and conduct beyond reproach.
He stated that the legal fraternity looks forward to Abdul Halim applying his expertise conscientiously and “without fear or favour.”
The incoming chief succeeds Tan Sri Azam Baki, who has held the post since March 9, 2020. Azam’s current contract is set to expire on May 12, marking the end of a six-year tenure defined by several high-stakes investigations.
