SHAH ALAM – A coalition of civil society organisations has issued an urgent appeal to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, demanding immediate intervention following allegations of misconduct involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki and the agency itself.
The group, which consists of 48 organisations and prominent individuals, is advocating for the formation of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) or an independent panel.
They have proposed that such a body be chaired by a highly regarded figure, such as former Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, to scrutinise claims involving unexplained wealth, abuse of power, and alleged regulatory extortion.
“The current Cabinet decision to limit the forum to an internal ad hoc committee and restrict the investigation solely to Azam’s shareholdings in a listed company demonstrates weak judgment and disregards the seriousness of the allegations,” the statement read.
Further concerns were raised regarding Attorney-General (AG) Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar’s role as the committee chair.
The group cited his controversial involvement in withdrawing charges against Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as a cause for distrust.
“This arrangement only fuels public cynicism that the committee may conclude with a ‘No Further Action’ decision,” the statement added.
To restore public confidence, the coalition has proposed four immediate measures, beginning with the appointment of an oversight body entirely free from the influence of the Ministry, the civil service, or the AG.
They further insisted that Azam should go on leave for the duration of the investigation to ensure total impartiality.
The group called for a parliamentary inquiry to establish a comprehensive reform roadmap for the MACC, focusing on appointment processes and accountability, which they believe must be completed by Dec 31.
Finally, they urged the formal separation of the roles of the AG and the Public Prosecutor, supported by rigorous parliamentary oversight.
The call for reform follows reports earlier this year by Bloomberg, which stated that Azam held 17.7 million shares in Velocity Capital Partner Bhd, a financial services firm listed on Bursa Malaysia.
Based on the company’s annual filing with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) on Feb 3, 2025, the holdings were valued at nearly RM800,000 as of Feb 9.
Azam has denied all allegations of wrongdoing, asserting that his financial and asset declarations were submitted in accordance with public service regulations.
However, the coalition maintains that these recurring controversies highlight the urgent need for structural changes.
They emphasised that a commission free from executive influence is essential to restore public trust and uphold the rule of law.
If the government ignores these "double standards," the group warns that public frustration will continue to unite citizens across the political divide.