PETALING JAYA - The change of the top man at MACC must not be merely a change of face, says Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) president Raymon Ram.
He also said that allegations against Tan Sri Azam Baki should not disappear with the new appointment.
The anti-graft NGO said that a change in leadership was important but without strengthening MACC’s independence and oversight, it risks addressing the symptoms rather than the root cause.
When contacted, Raymon said the announcement of Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman's appointment as the new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief should be an opportunity for a reset.
“This new appointment must not be mistaken for a resolution. This transition should be used to drive meaningful institutional reform so that MACC is not only effective in its enforcement.
“It should also be credible, independent and accountable in the eyes of the public,” said Raymon.
He further said the appointment of Abdul Halim with his judicial background brings a degree of credibility and professionalism that can help stabilise the institution.
“We must be careful not to reduce this moment to a change of face. The deeper concern lies in how MACC is structured, particularly its reporting lines, its relationship with the executive, and whether its leadership is seen to be independent in both form and substance.
“Under the current framework, the appointment process remains closely tied to the executive, and this has long been a point of concern among reform advocates.
“Even the National Anti-Corruption Strategy recognises that the appointment and dismissal process requires review, and that there is a need to establish a more independent governance framework, including an MACC Service Commission,” said Raymon.
He further said that MACC must continue to carry out its enforcement mandate without fear or favour.
“Investigations must be impartial, internal integrity must be upheld, and any issues affecting the institution's credibility must be addressed transparently.
Whistleblowers must also be protected, as they remain critical to the fight against corruption.
“The new Chief Commissioner must become a driver of institutional reform.
“The new leadership should not simply manage the institution as it is but helps move it towards being more independent, more accountable and more transparent,” said Raymon.
He also said that the concerns that were raised about Azam should not simply disappear.
“What has emerged is not just a question about an individual, but a broader issue about how accountability is handled within the system.
“Where public confidence has been affected, the response must be proportionate to the level of concern. If existing processes are insufficient to restore trust, then more independent mechanisms such as a Royal Commission of Inquiry should be considered.
“If wrongdoing is established, the law must take its course.
“Allowing the issue to fade without resolution, simply because there is a change in leadership, risks reinforcing the perception that accountability can be avoided,” said Raymon. - THE STAR