FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
13 February 2026
TI-Malaysia: Uphold Rule of Law — Independent Verification Essential to Protect MACC’s Institutional Integrity
Kuala Lumpur — Transparency International Malaysia (TI-Malaysia) notes the recent Bloomberg reports published on 10 and 12 February 2026 concerning (i) Tan Sri Azam Baki’s reported shareholdings as reflected in corporate filings, and (ii) subsequent allegations relating to investigative powers in matters involving corporate control disputes.
These developments have generated significant public concern. As Malaysia’s premier anti-corruption institution, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must not only be independent — it must also be seen to be independent.
TI-Malaysia underscores three fundamental principles.
First, institutional integrity is paramount.
The MACC Act 2009 establishes the Commission as an “independent and accountable” anti-corruption body. Public confidence in MACC’s impartiality is critical to Malaysia’s anti-corruption framework. When serious allegations arise — whether concerning potential conflicts of interest or alleged misuse of investigative authority — they must be addressed transparently and credibly to preserve institutional legitimacy.
Second, conflict-of-interest safeguards for senior public office must be robust, clearly explained, and independently verifiable.
With respect to the shareholding issue, MACC has publicly stated that Tan Sri Azam Baki complied with asset declaration requirements through official channels, including declarations via HRMIS to the Public Service Department (JPA), and that the shares in question were acquired and disposed of within the same year. TI-Malaysia acknowledges these public statements.
At the same time, JPA’s conduct guidance (UP.7.2.6) provides that public officers’ share purchases are subject to conditions, including limits not exceeding 5% of paid-up capital or RM100,000 at current value, whichever is lower, per company, alongside defined conflict-of-interest permission requirements.
Third, the rule of law and presumption of innocence must prevail.
Allegations reported in the media are not findings of guilt. TI-Malaysia does not prejudge any individual’s liability. Any determination of wrongdoing must be made through lawful, competent and independent processes — not through speculation or trial by media.
Given the public interest involved, TI-Malaysia calls for an independent, time-bound investigation, with a clear public explanation sufficient to reconcile corporate filings, applicable governance rules, and compliance assessments — while respecting privacy and due process. Such clarification is necessary to protect both the officeholder concerned and the credibility of Malaysia’s anti-corruption system.
Next, regarding the subsequent Bloomberg report alleging possible misuse of investigative powers for corrupt practices in corporate matters, TI-Malaysia believes this is a wake-up call.
The question of “quis custodiet ipsos custodes” or “who watches the watchtower” has been around since Roman times, but has been lingering around the Malaysian media since the days of the current Prime Minister’s detention and trial, as well as Teoh Beng Hock’s case.
The calls to implement an independent and impartial oversight mechanism that applies a consistent and credible approach towards investigations of alleged misconduct and disputes has always been two-fold: to protect the public from the abuse of power by public servants, but also to protect innocent and clean public servants, when they face allegations that undermine their institutions and work.
The breadth of MACC’s powers demands equally strong oversight safeguards. TI-Malaysia therefore calls for:
- Independent review of governance and oversight mechanisms relating to investigations involving listed companies and market-sensitive matters, by an independent taskforce or royal commission of inquiry, that will publish all its findings;
- Strengthened parliamentary and institutional accountability structures through the establishment of an independent Ombudsman with sufficient powers and resources to investigate all allegations of misconduct fairly and transparently, for all civil servants, including all law enforcement and regulatory agencies;
- Enhanced whistleblower protections and safe reporting channels, in line with the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 and its 2025 amendments, to ensure individuals with evidence can come forward without fear of reprisals.
This is not about personalities. It is about protecting the integrity of Malaysia’s anti-corruption architecture.
TI-Malaysia has consistently advocated for:
- Stronger independence and accountability structures for the MACC;
- Meaningful and transparent asset declaration frameworks for senior public officials;
- Robust corporate transparency measures, including beneficial ownership reforms;
- Clear separation between investigative authority and political influence.
Malaysia’s fight against corruption depends not only on enforcement, but on public trust. When questions arise, the appropriate response is not defensiveness or politicisation — it is independent verification, transparency and institutional reform.
TI-Malaysia does not speculate on hearsay nor endorse “media findings”.
But we are firm — that credibility must be protected through lawful, independent, and transparent mechanisms.
Only through principled action can Malaysia strengthen confidence in its anti-corruption institutions and continue advancing governance reforms.
Raymon Ram
President
Transparency International Malaysia
